NJ Smart Choices

Building the movement for smart land use
and transportation planning in New Jersey.

NJ Funding Programs

Please send feedback, suggestions for improvements and corrections of information to Juliette Michaelson (jmichaelson@pps.org).

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At Home Downtown Program
X planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

At Home Downtown allows a borrower to finance both the purchase (or refinance) and rehabilitation of an existing structure or the construction and permanent financing of a new structure. Properties may be 1- to 4-family residential structures, if owner occupied, or 1-3 residential structures, if non-owner occupied, which include a storefront commercial component. The actual mortgage amount is based upon the projected value of the property after all construction and/or specified repairs are completed and takes into consideration the purchase price (or existing debt) plus the cost of repairs. This program is administered by DCA's Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.

For more information:

Bicycle/Pedestrian Planning Assistance
V planning
X implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Traffic calming;
NJ Department of Transportation

This program is for NJDOT consultant support designed to develop local pedestrian/bicycle circulation plans and facility inventories. The program provides municipalities with consultant expertise in the professional disciplines of transportation and pedestrian/bicycle planning to develop local circulation elements and other transportation related planning initiatives. Potential and designated State Development and Redevelopment Plan Centers, target neighborhoods under the Urban Strategies Initiatives and improving bicycle and pedestrian access and safety locations receive priority. Assistance is to be provided under a partnership arrangement, and applicants must commit staff and or/financial resources to these efforts. All studies undertaken must have a public outreach aspect, including continuing involvement by both the official representatives of the municipality as well as participation by local citizens. This Program is administered by the Division of Transportation Systems Planning & Research, Bureau of Systems Development and Analysis (BSDA).

For more information:

Bikes Belong
V planning
V implementation
Bicycle improvements;
Bikes Belong Coalition, Ltd.

Bikes Belong is the national coalition of bicycle suppliers and retailers working together to put more people on bicycles more often. Through national leadership, grassroots support, and promotion, we work to make bicycling safe, convenient, and fun. One of the Coalition's primary activities is the funding of local bicycle advocacy organizations that are trying to ensure that TEA-21-funded bicycle or trail facilities get built. Grants are awarded for up to $10,000 on a rolling basis.

For more information:

Brownfield Development Area Initiative
V planning
X implementation
Land use; Brownfields;
NJ Department of Environmental Protection

Under the innovative Brownfield Development Area (BDA) initiative, NJDEP works with selected communities affected by multiple Brownfields to design and implement remediation and reuse plans for these properties simultaneously, so that remediation and reuse can occur in a coordinated fashion. All stakeholders, including owners of contaminated properties, potentially responsible parties, developers, community groups, technical experts for the local government and residents, and residents themselves, will be invited to the table to participate in this cleanup and revitalization approach.

The BDA process provides a framework and resources to empower affected neighborhoods to address these difficult brownfields where additional assistance may be needed from all stakeholders, including developers, property owners and parties potentially responsible for the cleanup. It is important to note that the purpose of the BDA initiative is to help reuse of these properties. In the selected BDAs, NJDEP will work closely with other involved agencies and offices, including the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Office of Smart Growth (OSG), to remediate and revitalize communities and neighborhoods, not just individual properties.

For more information:

Brownfields Economic Development Initiative (BEDI)
X planning
V implementation
Brownfields;
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

The Brownfields Economic Development Initiative is designed to assist cities with the redevelopment of abandoned, idled and underused industrial and commercial facilities where expansion and redevelopment is burdened by real or potential environmental contamination. BEDI grant funds are primarily targeted for use with a particular emphasis upon the redevelopment of brownfields sites in economic development projects and the increase of economic opportunities for low-and moderate-income persons as part of the creation or retention of businesses, jobs and increases in the local tax base.

BEDI funds are used as the stimulus for local governments and private sector parties to commence redevelopment or continue phased redevelopment efforts on brownfields sites where either potential or actual environmental conditions are known and redevelopment plans exist. HUD emphasizes the use of BEDI and Section 108 Loan Guarantee funds to finance projects and activities that will provide near-term results and demonstrable economic benefits. HUD does not encourage applications whose scope is limited only to site acquisition and/or remediation (i.e., land banking), where there is no immediately planned redevelopment. BEDI funds are used to enhance the security or to improve the viability of a project financed with a new Section 108 guaranteed loan commitment.

For more information:

  • Visit the BEDI Webpage.
  • Contact the Camden Office of HUD at (856) 757-5081.
  • Contact the Newark Office of HUD at (973) 622-7900.
City Living Program
X planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

The City Living Program provides construction, permanent and subsidy funding for predominantly market-rate rental housing developments in urbanized locations where: 1) the market rate rents are not yet high enough to support the development of the project, and 2) the project is part of a municipally approved revitalization plan. The Program is intended to provide financing for projects that are located near employment, transportation, and entertainment centers, while at the same time offering direct and indirect benefits to support community revitalization. This program is administered by DCA's Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.

For more information:

Community Development Block Grant (Entitlement Communities)
X planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization;
Note: This program is only available to select municipalities. Read below for more details.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

This program provides annual grants on a formula basis to entitled cities and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons. Principal cities of Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs), other metropolitan cities with populations of at least 50,000, and qualified urban counties with populations of at least 200,000 (excluding the population of entitled cities) are entitled to receive annual grants.

CDBG funds may be used for activities which include, but are not limited to: acquisition of real property; relocation and demolition; rehabilitation of residential and non-residential structures; construction of public facilities and improvements, such as water and sewer facilities, streets, neighborhood centers, and the conversion of school buildings for eligible purposes; public services, within certain limits; activities relating to energy conservation and renewable energy resources; and provision of assistance to profit-motivated businesses to carry out economic development and job creation/retention activities.

Note that this program is applicable only to entitlement communities. For non-entitlement communities (cities with populations of less than 50,000 and counties with populations of less than 200,000), please refer to the state administered CDBG program.

For more information:

  • Visit HUD's CDBG Webpage.
  • Contact the Camden Office of HUD at (856) 757-5081.
  • Contact the Newark Office of HUD at (973) 622-7900.
Community Development Block Grant Program (Small Cities)
X planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization;
Note: This program is only available to select municipalities. Read below for more details.
NJ Department of Community Affairs

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, administered by the DCA, are used for a wide range of community development activities directed toward neighborhood revitalization, economic development, and improved community facilities and services. CDBG funds have been used to fund pedestrian improvements, including streetscape improvements, sidewalk installation, curb ramps, and building modifications to meets ADA access requirements. CDBG funds can also be used to help construct neighborhood centers, rehabilitate public and private buildings, and provide planning assistance for community development activities.

Note that this program is applicable only to non-entitlement communities (cities with populations of less than 50,000 and counties with populations of less than 200,000). For entitlement communities (cities with populations of more than 50,000 and counties with populations of more than 200,000), please refer to the federally administered CDBG program.

For more information:

Community Forestry Program
V planning
V implementation
Streetscape improvements;
NJ Department of Environmental Protection

In response to the passing of the New Jersey Shade Tree & Community Forestry Assistance Act in 1996, the New Jersey Community Forestry Program's Green Community Challenge Grants are awarded to communities for the development of comprehensive community forestry management plans. Community Stewardship Incentive Program (CSIP) Grants allow municipalities and counties to implement their Community Forestry Management Plan. Finally, New Jersey Tree Planting Grant are awarded to support municipal tree planting plans.

For more information:

Commuter Benefit Programs
X planning
V implementation
Travel demand management;

Commuter programs are based on significant tax benefits for employers and employees, as allowed by federal legislation.

Please visit the respective companies' websites for more information on their programs:

Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Trails; Travel demand management; Pollution reduction;
Note: New Jersey has three Metropolitan Planning Organizations. Click here to determine the appropriate one for your location.
Metropolitan Planning Organizations

Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds are focused primarily on transportation control measures (TCMs). TCMs are strategies whose primary purpose is to lessen the pollutants emitted by motor vehicles by decreasing travel demand (e.g., reducing motor vehicle trips, vehicle-miles traveled, and use of single occupant vehicles) and encouraging more efficient facility use (e.g., reducing vehicle idling and stop-and-start traffic in congested conditions, managing traffic incidents expeditiously).

In addition, CMAQ funds may be used for projects that reduce vehicle emissions directly through vehicle inspection and maintenance programs and fleet conversions to less polluting alternative-fuel vehicles. Intermodal freight facilities, strategies to reduce particulate emissions, and public education and other related outreach activities in support of TCMs are also eligible. The funds are intended primarily for new facilities, equipment, and services aimed at generating new sources of emission reductions. Operating funds that support these projects are generally restricted to a 3-year period. The CMAQ enabling legislation explicitly prohibits funding of construction projects that provide new capacity for single-occupant vehicle travel, such as the addition of general-purpose lanes to an existing highway or a new highway at a new location.

For more information - NJTPA Counties:

For more information - DVRPC Counties:

For more information - SJTPO Counties:

Construction of Ferry Boats and Ferry Terminal Facilities Program
X planning
V implementation
Transit improvements;
Federal Highway Administration

This discretionary program provides funding for the construction of ferry boats and ferry terminal facilities. $5 million out of the annual allocation is specifically set aside for the state of New Jersey. Thus far, the provided funding has been underutilized.

Priority shall be given to projects that:

  • provide critical access to areas not well served by other modes of surface transportation
  • carry the greatest number of passengers and vehicles
  • carry the greatest number of passengers in passengers-only service

For more information:

County Aid Program
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges;
NJ Department of Transportation

County Aid funds are appropriated by the Legislature annually for the improvement of public roads and bridges under county jurisdiction. These funds are allocated to New Jersey's 21 counties by a formula that takes into account road mileage and population. Each county develops an Annual Transportation Program (ATP) that identifies all projects to be undertaken and their estimated cost. Projects may include improvements to public roads and bridges under county jurisdiction, public transportation or other transportation related work. Funding can be used for design, right-of-way and construction Independent pedestrian and bicycle projects can be funded under the county aid program; however, few independent pedestrian and bicycle projects have been funded. This program is administered by the NJDOT Division of Local Aid and Economic Development.

Fore more information:

Discretionary Aid Program
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges;
NJ Department of Transportation

The Discretionary Aid Program provides funding to address emergency or regional needs throughout the state. Any county or municipality may apply at any time. These projects are approved at the discretion of the Commissioner. Under this program a county or municipality may also apply for funding for safe streets to schools and bikeway projects. This program is administered by the NJDOT Division of Local Aid and Economic Development.

For more information:

Downtown New Jersey
V planning
X implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Land use; Traffic calming; Streetscape improvements; Downtown revitalization;
Downtown New Jersey, Inc.

Downtown New Jersey is a nonprofit organization that helps to support, guide and lead efforts at downtown revitalization throughout New Jersey. DNJ provides informational and educational opportunities; tracks judicial and legislative issues which would affect the success of New Jersey's downtown commercial districts; and fosters communication among business, political and professional leadership.

For more information:

Economic Development Programs
X planning
V implementation
Brownfields;
NJ Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority (EDA) has targeted a wide variety of financial resources to return New Jersey's economically underutilized sites to productive use and encourage redevelopment of older urban, suburban and rural communities in the state. Often working in partnership with other state agencies, the EDA can offer financial assistance to help cover costs associated with planning and predevelopment, remediation and redevelopment. And, it can provide incentives for business attraction and expansion on redeveloped properties.

The EDA offers assistance to developers, businesses, municipalities and community groups at various stages of the Brownfields restoration process, from planning to cleanup to redevelopment. It sponsors programs that target Brownfields directly, and offers programs that are generally available, which can be useful to developers and businesses seeking to reclaim Brownfields sites. Brownfields remediation programs include:

  • Revenue Allocation District (RAD) Funding: Funding is available to assist municipalities in encouraging revenue-generating development projects in a RAD as part of a locally approved redevelopment plan. NJEDA can serve as a district agent for a municipality to coordinate development. Real estate development assistance can be provided to municipalities or joint ventures.
  • Redevelopment Area Bond Financing: Long-term, low-interest bonds are available for infrastructure improvements and other predevelopment costs, including demolition and remediation.
  • Bond Financing: Financing is available to manufacturers and not-for-profits for real estate acquisitions, new building construction, equipment and renovations. Funding is available to municipalities for infrastructure improvements and other municipal projects.
  • Smart Growth Predevelopment Funding: The program provides low-cost loan and guarantees for pre-development site preparation costs associated with, but not related to, land assemblage, demolition, removal of materials and debris, and engineering. The program benefits commercial, industrial, office and mixed-use projects in urban, developed suburban and rural communities.

For more information:

EPA Programs
V planning
V implementation
Land use; Open space; Pollution reduction;
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

From time to time, the EPA offers funding opportunities for communities trying to implement smart growth principles.

For more information:

Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program
X planning
V implementation
Open space;
U.S. Department of Agriculture

The Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program (FRPP) is a Federal program managed by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The goal of the program is to protect farm and ranch lands that contain prime, unique, or statewide and locally important soils or historic and archaeological resources from conversion to non-agricultural uses. The program preserves valuable farm and ranch lands for future generations. USDA NRCS achieves this goal by working cooperatively with State, Tribal, and local governments and non-governmental organizations.

For more information:

Farmland Preservation Program
X planning
V implementation
Open space;
NJ Department of Agriculture

The Farmland Preservation Program is administered by State Agricultural Development Committee. Under this program, farmland is preserved through the sale or donation of development easements (deed restrictions preventing the land from being developed for anything other than agriculture); fee simple land purchase; and eight-year preservation (in which landowners voluntarily restrict development on their land for a period of eight years in return for cost-sharing grants for soil and water conservation projects, as well as other benefits and protections).

For more information:

Green Acres Program
V planning
V implementation
Open space;
NJ Department of Environmental Protection

The Green Acres Program serves as the real estate agent for the Department of Environmental Protection, acquiring land to become part of the system of state parks, forests, natural areas, and wildlife management areas. The Green Acres Program comprises four program areas: State Park and Open Space Acquisition, Local Governments and Nonprofit Funding, Stewardship and Legal Services, and Planning and Technical Assistance. In addition to preserving 1.2 million acres of open space and farmland, the program also provide assistance to urban and suburban municipal governments and nonprofit organizations to provide parks and outdoor recreation facilities, urban wildlife preserves and quality open spaces in our cities, suburbs and other developed communities.

For more information:

Historic Preservation Office
V planning
V implementation
Land use; Scenic or historic enhancements;
NJ Department of Environmental Protection

The Historic Preservation Office provides information on potential historic sites; identifies qualified consultants to conduct cultural resource surveys; provides technical assistance for treatment of historic resources; identifies funding sources such as tax credits and NJ Historic Trust Grants; and reviews potential effects on historic properties under Land Use Review, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the New Jersey Register Review. HPO also administers several grant programs, including the following:

  • Historic Preservation Fund CLG (Certified Local Government) grants may be used to promote historic preservation projects such as municipal Master Plan development, historic resource surveys, planning and education projects, historic structures reports, New Jersey and National Register nominations and archaeological resources plans. The goals for historic preservation grant projects are: to identify all buildings, sites, structures, objects and districts which are significant in American history, architecture, archaeology or engineering, and which meet the criteria for inclusion in The New Jersey and National Register of Historic Places; and to design and implement planning tools for the protection of these resources. To participate, local governments must be certified (CLG) by the State Historic Preservation Office.
  • The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) Program: Administered by the National Park Service through the HPO, ITC has promoted reinvestment in historic buildings since 1976. The program provides federal income tax credits for rehabilitation of income producing historic properties.

For more information:

HOPE VI Main Street Grants for Small Communities
X planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization;
Note: This program is only available to select municipalities. Read below for more details.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

The HOPE VI Main Street program seeks to rejuvenate older, downtown business districts while retaining the area's traditional and Historic character. The purpose of the HOPE VI Main Street Program is to provide assistance to smaller communities in the development of affordable housing that is undertaken in connection with a Main Street revitalization effort. Local governments of fewer than 50,000 people that have a Main Street rejuvenation effort and that are served by a public housing agency with no more than 100 public housing units may apply.

For more information:

HOPE VI Revitalization Grants
X planning
V implementation
Land use; Downtown revitalization;
Note: This program is only available to select municipalities. Read below for more details.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

HOPE VI Revitalization Grants may be used for activities including relocation, demolition, development and rehabilitation of public housing rental units and homeownership units, and community and supportive services to residents to revitalize severely distressed public housing developments. HOPE VI Revitalization grants can also be used to provide housing that will avoid or decrease the concentration of very low-income families; and build sustainable communities. Public housing agencies (PHAs) that have severely distressed public housing in their inventory and meet the threshold requirements of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) are eligible to apply for HOPE VI funds.

For more information:

Job Access and Reverse Commute Grants
V planning
V implementation
Travel demand management;
Note: New Jersey has three Metropolitan Planning Organizations. Click here to determine the appropriate one for your location.
Metropolitan Planning Organizations / NJ Transit

The JARC program consists of two components, Job Access and Reverse Commute. The Access to Jobs Program provides competitive grants to local governments and non-profit organizations to develop transportation services to connect welfare recipients and low-income persons to employment and support services. Reverse Commute projects provide transportation services to suburban employment centers from urban, rural and other suburban locations for all populations. In all Job Access and Reverse Commute applications, applicants must identify non-US Department of Transportation funds to match JARC grants. These funds must be developed as to a 1-to-1 match.

For more information - NJTPA Counties:

For more information - DVRPC Counties:

For more information - SJTPO Counties:

Live Where You Work Program
X planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

The Live Where You Work Program (LWYW) is designed to provide low-interest, 30 year mortgage loans to homebuyers purchasing a home in the municipality in which they are employed provided that the municipality has agreed to participate in the Program. In keeping with Smart Growth principles, the Program supports efforts to reduce automobile use, encourages alternative modes of transportation while improving air quality and reducing pollution. LWYW also provides down payment and closing costs assistance to eligible homebuyers in an amount up to 4% of the first mortgage loan amount. The 4% down payment and/or closing cost assistance is a second mortgage loan, however, there are no monthly payments on the second mortgage and it will be discharged if the employee resides in the property as the principal residence for seven years. In addition, the program offers 1% expanded housing and debt underwriting ratios to borrowers participating in the program. This program is administered by DCA's Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.

For more information:

Local Aid for Centers of Place
X planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Traffic calming; Streetscape improvements; Trails; Scenic or historic enhancements;
Note: This program is only available to select municipalities. Read below for more details.
NJ Department of Transportation

This funding is a NJDOT program designed to assist municipalities who have formally participated in implementation of the New Jersey State Development and Redevelopment Plan (SDRP). Such participation entails designation as a Center by the State Planning Commission, preparation of a Strategic Revitalization Plan and Program, which has been approved by the Commission, or entrance into an Urban Complex, which has been approved by the Commission. The program provides the opportunity to apply for funds to support non-traditional transportation improvements that advance municipal growth management objectives as outlined in the action planning agenda of the municipality. Participation of municipalities in the SDRP ensures eligibility to compete for funds in the program. This program is administered by the NJDOT Division of Local Aid and Economic Development.

Typical projects include: pedestrian and bicycle improvements; adaptive reuse of abandoned railway corridors (pedestrian and bicycle trails); scenic or historic transportation improvements; landscaping/beautification of transportation related facilities (streetscape improvements); and rehabilitation of transportation structures.

In general, eligible projects are similar to Transportation Enhancements projects, but only SDRP municipalities are eligible to apply for funding. Allowable costs include preliminary engineering, design and construction. An annual solicitation for project proposals is sent to all eligible municipalities. This program is administered by the NJDOT Division of Local Aid and Economic Development in cooperation with the Bureau of Statewide Planning. All applications are forwarded to the Local Aid and Economic Development Office for review and evaluated by a Centers of Place Review Committee which includes representation from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and Downtown New Jersey. A recommendation is made for final approval by the Commissioner of Transportation. Funding levels have varied from $750,000 to $3 Million depending upon appropriations by the Legislature.

For more information:

Local Finance Tools
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Land use; Traffic calming; Streetscape improvements; Trails; Downtown revitalization; Scenic or historic enhancements; Travel demand management; Brownfields; Open space; Pollution reduction; Safety;
Municipal Governments
  • Special (Business) Improvement Districts: SIDs assess residents within set boundaries for additional services, such as park maintenance and public safety. They establish a partnership between property owners and businesses in downtown or commercial areas for the purpose of improving the business climate in a defined area. Impetus for the SID generally comes from business and property owners hoping to attract new customers by cleaning up sidewalks, improving parks, increasing lighting, etc. These business owners want better city services and are willing to pay for it -- within their neighborhood. In some places, they are willing to take on nongovernmental tasks, such as marketing, to supplement city services. There are currently an estimated 70 SIDs in the state of New Jersey. Refer to DCA's "SIDs: Loans & Grants" program for technical and financial assistance.
  • Tax Increment Financing: Tax increment financing can be used for a variety of purposes, including acquiring property to be resold at reduced prices and on-site improvements such as utilities, lights, repaving streets, and restoring neighborhood parks. TIF works like this: When a TIF plan is adopted, the assessed valuation of real property within a designated redevelopment area is frozen. Taxes are paid on the property at this base level while improvements to the area are made, new businesses are attracted, and property values rise. Typically, any increase in the assessed value of the property or additional sales tax revenues makes up the tax increment, which is then used to pay project costs or repay the bonds or other obligations that helped finance the project. By investing in a designated area, the TIF technique has aptly been described as a means of borrowing against the speculative gain that a project should bring.
  • Impact Fees: An impact fee is a one-time charge that private entrepreneurs, often developers, must pay to the local government in order to undertake their projects. In turn, the revenue from the impact fee finances public goods and services associated with the project, but which the developer would not provide voluntarily. Water and sewer lines, streets and bridges, and parks and recreational facilities are typical impact fee-funded projects.
  • User Fee Financing: Parking fees, dog tags, community college tuition, water bills, and park and recreation fees are just a few of the many different kinds of user fees collected by local governments. These funds can then be used to pay for transportation improvements, park maintenance and other municipal services.
  • Property Tax Financing: Perhaps because it is paid in a large lump sum check as opposed to small additions to each purchase, the property tax is the least popular of all state and local taxes. Yet they are an important source of revenue for local governments because they provide a steady source of revenue, less affected by downturns in the economy than either the sales or the income tax. In addition, property taxes are relatively easily administered at the local level, revenues can be accurately predicted, and the tax burden is fairly equitably distributed.

For more information:

Locally Initiated Bicycle Projects
X planning
V implementation
Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Trails; Safety;
NJ Department of Transportation

This program provides funds for municipalities and counties for the construction of bicycle projects. These could include roadway improvements, which enable a roadway or street to safely accommodate bicycle traffic, or designated bikeways (signed bike routes, bike lanes or multi-use trails). The solicitation for project applications occurs at the same time as the solicitation for municipal aid projects. Applications are solicited, evaluated, and rated by NJDOT staff. Based on this evaluation, a list of recommended projects is proposed to the Commissioner of Transportation, who makes the final selection. This program is administered by the NJDOT Division of Local Aid and Economic Development.

For more information:

Locally Initiated Pedestrian Projects
X planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Safety;
NJ Department of Transportation

This program provides funds for municipalities and counties for the construction of pedestrian access and safety improvements. It includes the Safe Streets to School program. The solicitation for project applications occurs at the same time as the solicitation for municipal aid projects. Applications are solicited, evaluated, and rated by NJDOT staff. Based on this evaluation, a list of recommended projects is proposed to the Commissioner of Transportation, who makes the final selection. The program is administered by NJDOT's Division of Local Government Services.

For more information:

Local Scoping and Local Lead Projects
X planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Streetscape improvements; Safety;
Note: New Jersey has three Metropolitan Planning Organizations. Click here to determine the appropriate one for your location.
Metropolitan Planning Organizations

The Local Scoping Program provides the MPOs' subregions (counties) the opportunity to use federal funding to advance local, surface transportation projects through preliminary engineering and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), thereby developing a solution to a defined transportation problem. The subregion identifies a transportation problem (i.e., congested roadway, structurally deficient bridge, missing link in a bike or pedestrian system) and solves this problem during the "scoping" phase of the project development process. After the scoping process, the project would be ready for final design. The Local Lead Program allows the MPOs' subregions to apply directly for federal funding for the advancement of local, surface transportation projects through the final design, right-of-way acquisition and construction phases of the project development process.

Projects must be surface transportation projects (i.e., roadways, bridges, bike paths, pedestrian facilities) on roads with the functional classification of rural major collector, rural minor arterial, rural principal arterial, urban collector, urban minor arterial, or urban principal arterial.

For more information - NJTPA Counties:

For more information - DVRPC Counties:

For more information - SJTPO Counties:

Local Transportation Planning Assistance Program (LTPA)
V planning
X implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Land use; Traffic calming; Downtown revitalization;
NJ Department of Transportation

This program is for NJDOT consultant support designed to address local transportation and quality of life issues by promoting local implementation of the state's Smart Growth land use and transportation policies. The LTPA program provides municipalities with consultant expertise in the professional disciplines of transportation and land use planning to develop local circulation elements, access management plans, local traffic calming studies, and other transportation related planning initiatives. Potential and designated State Development and Redevelopment Plan Centers, Transit Oriented Developments, and participation in the Department's Transit Village and smart growth corridor planning initiatives receive highest priority. Municipal requests for LTPA services will be evaluated based on the nature of the problem(s) to be addressed and the expected benefit to the community. Applicants must commit staff and or/financial resources to these efforts. All studies undertaken must have a public outreach aspect, including continuing involvement by both the official representatives of the municipality as well as participation by local citizens. This Program is administered by the Division of Transportation Systems Planning & Research, Bureau of Systems Development and Analysis (BSDA).

For more information:

Main Street New Jersey
V planning
V implementation
Land use; Downtown revitalization;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

Main Street is a comprehensive revitalization program that promotes the historic and economic redevelopment of traditional business districts in New Jersey. Every two years the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs accepts applications and designates selected communities to join the program. These communities receive valuable technical support and training to assist in restoring their Main Streets as centers of community and economic activity, and provide communities with the skills and knowledge to manage their own business districts. Assistance is provide to designated Main Street New Jersey municipalities, downtown revitalization organizations, Economic Development Corporations, Urban Enterprise Zones, Special Improvement Districts, and New Jersey citizens.

(NOTE: Similar assistance, including workshops and Downtown Business Assistance Teams, is provided by Downtown New Jersey, Inc., a not-for-profit partner with NJ TRANSIT in the Transit Friendly Communities for New Jersey Program; not affiliated with NJDCA.)

For more information:

Municipal Aid Program
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges;
NJ Department of Transportation

Municipal Aid funds are appropriated by the Legislature annually for the improvement of public roads and bridges under municipal jurisdiction. Funding is made available for municipalities in each county based on a formula that takes into account municipal road mileage within the county and county population. These funds are allocated to individual projects within various municipalities through a competitive process. Projects may be improvements to public roads and bridges under municipal jurisdiction. As is the case with the County aid program, independent pedestrian and bicycle projects can be funded under the municipal aid program; however, few if any independent pedestrian and bicycle projects have been funded through this program. This program is administered by the NJDOT Division of Local Aid and Economic Development.

Fore more information:

National Historic Covered Bridge Preservation Program
V planning
V implementation
Streets, roads, bridges; Scenic or historic enhancements;
NJ Department of Transportation

This federal program provides funding to States for the rehabilitation, repair, or preservation of covered bridges that are listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The program provides for two categories of projects. One is for grants to assist the States to rehabilitate, repair, and preserve the Nation's historic covered bridges. The second is for the conduct of research and technology transfer. A New Jersey municipality interested in preserving a historic bridge should apply through the NJDOT.

For more information:

Neighborhood Preservation Program
V planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

The Neighborhood Preservation Program provides direct financial and technical assistance to municipalities over a three- to-five year period to conduct activities associated with the preservation of designated neighborhoods based on strategic revitalization's plans within those municipalities. Appropriate neighborhoods are those that are threatened by decline, but that are still viable.

For more information:

Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit (NRTC) Program
X planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization;
Note: This program is only available to select municipalities. Read below for more details.
NJ Department of Community Affairs

The Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit Program's mission is to foster the revitalization of New Jersey's low and moderate income neighborhoods through comprehensive strategies driven by residents and other public and private stakeholders within the neighborhood; specifically. The NRTC Program offers business entities a fifty percent tax credit against various New Jersey state taxes. Credits are provided to business entities that invest in the revitalization of low and moderate-income neighborhoods in eligible cities. A total of $10 million per year is available in tax credits, generating a total neighborhood revitalization investment of $20 million. Nonprofit entities must use at least 60% of the tax credit funds for housing and economic development; the remaining funds may be used for supportive services. Municipalities under the "Special Municipal Aid Act" or "Abbott Districts" are eligible.

For more information:

New Jersey Brownfields Program
V planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization; Brownfields;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

The DCA Brownfields Program facilitates Brownfields redevelopment, promoting coordination among state agencies and maximizing the impact of state Brownfields resources and providing a forum for state Brownfields policy. This is where the planning, the regulatory programs, the financial and technical support, the infrastructure for redevelopment and other state incentives come together to work with Brownfields project managers, municipalities and counties to implement the best possible redevelopment as quickly as possible. The Brownfields Redevelopment Task Force, the NJ Brownfields Redevelopment Interagency Team (BRIT) and the state's Brownfields inventory (Brownfields Site Mart) are managed through this office.

For more information:

New Jersey Historic Trust
V planning
V implementation
Scenic or historic enhancements;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

The New Jersey Historic Trust is a statewide nonprofit historic preservation organization, part of DCA, that provides financial support, protection and technical assistance through six programs:

  • The Garden State Historic Preservation Trust Fund provides matching grants for preservation planning and capital projects to stabilize, repair, restore and rehabilitate historic property. The fund guarantees $60 million in matching grants for the next decade, allowing the Trust to meet New Jersey's historic preservation needs.
  • The Revolving Loan Fund provides low-interest, long-term financing for the preservation, improvement, restoration, rehabilitation, and acquisition of historic properties.
  • The Emergency Grant and Loan Fund provides small grants or loans for the stabilization of historic property.
  • The Cultural Trust Capital Preservation Grant Program provides grants for the repair, preservation, restoration, rehabilitation and improvement of historic properties owned by organizations with a history or humanities mission.
  • The Preservation Easement Program ensures the preservation of privately owned properties in perpetuity through the use of deed restrictions.
  • The Trust accepts donations of real estate through its New Jersey Legacies program.

For more information:

NJ TRANSIT Capital Programs
X planning
V implementation
Transit improvements;
NJ Transit

A municipality seeking capital improvements to NJ TRANSIT bus and rail transit infrastructure may write a letter to the agency describing the problem area. NJ TRANSIT will assess the problem area and will evaluate possible capital improvements intended to address it. A municipality also should contact its county planning department to solicit support in submitting a transportation need to NJ TRANSIT.

For more information:

  • Contact James P. Redeker, NJ TRANSIT Assistant Executive Director, Policy, Technology and Customer Service, (973) 491-7750.
NJ Transit Community Shuttle Program
X planning
V implementation
Transit improvements;
NJ Transit

NJ TRANSIT's Community Shuttle Program offers a community the opportunity to provide its residents with shuttle service to and from a rail station, major bus corridor or a light rail station, during "peak" periods (6-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.). The program is a competitive process, open to any municipality or county. NJ TRANSIT uses federal funds to purchase 20-passenger minibuses that are leased, at no cost, to municipalities/counties for use in providing shuttle service. In addition, NJ TRANSIT offers initial "seed" funding in partial support of the operating costs for the shuttle service, during the first three years of operation. A municipality may use the vehicle during non-peak periods for other local transportation needs, at its own expense. This program is currently not accepting applications. However, for information on this program, please contact Sally Stocker at (973) 491-7774.

NJ Transit Local and Community Transportation Programs
X planning
V implementation
Transit improvements;
NJ Transit

The NJ TRANSIT Service Planning and Development area administers various federal grant programs and passes funding to sub-recipients, including counties, municipalities and private non-profit agencies.

The Local Programs and Minibus Support Unit administers the state casino revenue funds passed through to counties, as well as the federal Transit Administration's Section 5310 (Capital Assistance for Senior and Disabled Transportation programs) and Section 5311 (Assistance for non-urban transportation programs) funds. State law provides 7.5% of the Casino Tax Fund to be appropriated for transportation services for senior and disabled persons. Out of these funds, 85% is available to the counties through NJ TRANSIT for capital, operating, and administrative expenses for the provision of locally coordinated para-transit services. The amount each county receives is determined by utilizing an allocation formula based on the number of residents 60 years of age and over as reflected in the most recent U.S. Census Report. Under the FTA Section 5310 capital assistance program up to $2.5 million dollars a year is made available to purchase accessible vans and minibuses for agencies serving seniors and persons with disabilities. Under the Section 5311 program, between $2 and $3 million is made available to non-urban (rural) areas for operating, capital and administrative expenses, and also for the acquisition, construction and improvement of facilities and equipment.

The Innovation Service Planning Unit provides administrative oversight to the FTA Jobs Access and Reverse Commute grant program, the NJ TRANSIT Community Shuttle program as well as various federal earmarks for local communities.

For more information:

  • Contact Robert Koska, Director, Local Program and Minibus Support Unit, rkoska@njtransit.com, (973) 491-7376.
  • Contact Richard Kerr, Director, Innovation Service Planning Unit, rkerr@njtransit.com, (973) 491-7459.
NJ Transit Sales and Employer Services
V planning
V implementation
Transit improvements; Travel demand management;
NJ Transit

The Sales and Employer Services Division of NJ TRANSIT assists both public and private sector employers and employees with their transit needs and concerns. Through the following products and services, NJ TRANSIT seeks to address problems and offer solutions to traffic congestion, cleaner air, increased employee productivity, awareness of available commute options and access to safe, affordable and reliable transportation.

  • BusinessPass is the NJ TRANSIT commuter pass program that offers pre-tax savings on commuting costs. For more information, call (973) 491-7600 or e-mail businesspass@njtransit.com.
  • Get A Job Get A Ride/Corporate Partners: Employers participating in BusinessPass are eligible to become Corporate Partners with NJ TRANSIT. Under this arrangement, they may submit an application for new hires to receive a free monthly pass, provided they meet the program's criteria. For more information, call (973) 491-7600 or e-mail cplnsale@njtransit.com.
  • WorkPass offers qualifying social service and non-profit agencies the opportunity to purchase NJ TRANSIT monthly commuter passes and tickets. Agencies distribute these passes and tickets to program participants for use in their job related activities. For more information, call (973) 491-7600 or e-mail cplncad@njtransit.com.
  • The Air Quality Partnership is comprised of over five hundred corporations, government agencies and other organizations, working to reduce ground-level ozone. NJ TRANSIT supports this effort by offering the Air Quality Partnership members a special discounted round-ticket, OzonePass, for their employees' commute on designated "ozone alert days." For more information, call (973) 491-7600.
  • Vanpool Sponsorship Program: Vanpools are voluntary ridesharing arrangements, especially useful for travel patterns and areas not well serviced by traditional public transit. NJ TRANSIT provides financial assistance up to $150 per month to help vanpools offset their costs. For more information, contact your local Transportation Management Association at 1-800-245-POOL.
  • Relocation Services: NJ TRANSIT can help companies and their employees make the move from one worksite to another, including educating employees about public transit options. For more information, call (973) 491-7600 or e-mail cplnsale@njtransit.com.

For more information:

Office of Smart Growth Planning Unit
V planning
X implementation
Land use; Open space;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

Field representatives from DCA's Office of Smart Growth Planning Unit assist local and county government efforts to implement the State Plan, providing field support to locals and the general public on many planning issues, including master plans, design standards and resource protection.

For more information:

Planning Incentive Grant Program
X planning
V implementation
Open space;
NJ Department of Agriculture

The State Agriculture Development Committee provides grants to municipalities or counties for the purchase of development easements to permanently protect large blocks of reasonably contiguous farmland in project areas they have identified.

For more information:

Public Works (Capital) Funding
X planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Traffic calming; Streetscape improvements;
County and Municipal Governments

County or Municipal funding can be used to fund smart transportation and smart land use projects, by including the projects in the municipal (or county) budget, or bonding for it in the same way bonds are used to fund the construction and rehabilitation of roadway improvements for cars. Pedestrian improvements can be fully or partially assessed against the property owners along whose frontage the improvement (ordinarily a sidewalk) is placed. As with other categories of funding, bicycle and pedestrian improvements may be incidental to larger roadway projects; or they can be independent and solely to address pedestrian needs. Even small amounts of funding in county or municipal sources can be very important since they may be used to leverage or show local commitment in applications for other funding sources (e.g., Transportation Enhancements, Local Aid For Centers, etc.).

For more information:

  • Contact the appropriate County or Municipal government.
Recreational Trails Program
X planning
V implementation
Trails; Open space;
NJ Department of Environmental Protection

The Recreational Trails Program provides financial assistance for developing and maintaining trails and trail facilities. Trails can be for non-motorized, multi-use and motorized purposes. Land on which a trail facility is to be funded must be public land or private land with an easement for public recreational use. Funding levels vary from year to year depending upon a federal appropriation, but maximum grant award is $25,000.

Funds may be used for: the maintenance of existing trails and trail facilities; the construction of new trails, including the acquisition of property and equipment; as well as state administrative costs related to the program. The program, including solicitation of projects and project selection, is administered by the Office of Natural Lands Management in the Department of Environmental Protection. State, county, local governments, and non-profit organizations are eligible for funds.

For more information:

Redevelopment Programs
X planning
V implementation
Brownfields;
Note: This program is only available to select municipalities. Read below for more details.
NJ Redevelopment Authority

The NJRA provides technical assistance to the 69 eligible urban municipalities and serves as a facilitator for municipalities, community groups and developers to access state resources and information. Brownfields remediation programs include:

  • Bond Program: The program provides qualified small issue bonds for acquiring, constructing and renovating capital facilities.
  • New Jersey Redevelopment Investment Fund: This flexible investment fund provides debt and equity financing for business and real estate ventures. Through the RIF Program, the NJRA is able to offer direct loans, real estate equity, loan guarantees and other forms of credit enhancements.
  • New Jersey Urban Site Acquisition Program: The program provides funds for the acquisition, site assembly and redevelopment of properties that are part of urban redevelopment plans.
  • New Jersey Pre-Development Fund: The program provides funding for pre-development costs associated with non-housing related redevelopment projects.
  • Environmental Equity Program (E2P): The program provides funding for site acquisition, remediation and demolition costs of Brownfields redevelopment projects in NJRA eligible municipalities.

For more information:

Safe Routes to School
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Pollution reduction;
NJ Department of Transportation

Safe Routes to School is a new federal-aid program. Its purposes are to: enable and encourage children, including those with disabilities, to walk and bicycle to school; make bicycling and walking to school a safer and more appealing transportation alternative, thereby encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle from an early age; and facilitate the planning, development, and implementation of projects and activities that improve safety and reduce traffic, fuel consumption and air pollution in the vicinity of schools. In New Jersey, the program is coordinated by the Division of Local Aid and Economic Development.

For more information:

Safe Streets to School
X planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Traffic calming;
NJ Department of Transportation

This funding is available for communities seeking to improve the safety of children walking to school, and encourage more children to walk to school. Types of projects funded include: new sidewalks, pedestrian walkways, crosswalks, traffic signals, pedestrian signs, warning devices, traffic calming and intersection improvements. This program is administered by the NJDOT Division of Local Aid and Economic Development.

For more information:

Scenic Byways
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Scenic or historic enhancements; Safety;
NJ Department of Transportation

This program provides funds to designated Scenic Byways. So far, two scenic byways have been designated in New Jersey: Delaware River Scenic Byway and the Millstone River Valley Scenic Byway. Funds are available for: an activity related to the planning, design, or development of a State or Indian tribe scenic byway program; development and implementation of a byway corridor management plan; safety improvements to accommodate increased traffic; improvements that enhance access; protection of resources adjacent to the byway; development and implementation of a marketing program; development and provision of tourist implementation; and construction of bicycle and pedestrian facilities, interpretive facilities, overlooks and other enhancements for byway travelers.

For more information:

Smart Commute Initiative
X planning
V implementation
Transit improvements; Land use; Downtown revitalization;
Fannie Mae

In 2004, NJ TRANSIT and Fannie Mae introduced the New Jersey Statewide Smart Commute Initiative. The program, designed to encourage state residents to consider homeownership options near public transportation, is supported by the New Jersey Association of Realtors and a range of local and national lending institutions.

The Smart Commute Initiative is based on the premise that living near transit and using it for work and non-work trips can reduce a household's total spending on transportation, and that those potential savings can be redirected toward housing costs. Lenders participating in the program will add a share of the borrower's potential transportation savings - $200 per month for single-wage households and $250 per month for dual-wage households - to their qualifying income, thus increasing the applicant's home-buying power.

To qualify for the program, homes must be within one-half mile of rail or light rail stations or within one-quarter mile of a bus stop. Buyers cannot own more than two cars and must agree to use transit for their trips to work. Additional features of Smart Commute include low down payments of 3 percent and up to two free one-month transit passes from NJ TRANSIT. This newest incentive for locating near transit complements transit-friendly financing products already offered by the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency. These include the HMFA's "City Living" program for the development of market-rate rental housing in urban locations, and its "At Home Downtown" program for the rehabilitation or construction of one- to four-unit residential structures with storefront commercial components.

For more information:

Smart Future Planning Grants
V planning
X implementation
Land use; Downtown revitalization; Open space;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

These grants are intended to advance the legislative goals of the State Planning Act by helping local jurisdictions to plan for growth. The program is designed to promote comprehensive urban redevelopment that is sensitive to community needs, as well as efficient investment in and use of public infrastructure, affordable housing, environmental, natural, historic and cultural resource protection, and farmland preservation. Smart Future Planning Grants can be used to create centers-based plans, master plans, economic development or redevelopment plans, regional strategic plans, zoning or site plan ordinances, or other planning documents. This program is administered by the Office of Smart Growth at the Department of Community Affairs.

For more information:

Smart Growth Planning Grants for Municipalities
V planning
X implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Land use; Downtown revitalization; Brownfields; Open space; Pollution reduction;
Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions

Through the Smart Growth program, ANJEC (the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions) will award 1-to-1 matching reimbursement grants of up to $20,000 to municipalities for local or regional plans, ordinances, studies or document reviews that protect natural resources and establish the land use patterns envisioned in the State Plan. Suitable projects include, but are not limited to, the following: natural resource inventories (NRI); open space plans and preservation programs; master plan conservation elements; brownfields or revitalization plans that include new open space; bicycle/pedestrian network plans; capacity studies including build-out analysis, septic capacity and groundwater supply; master plan and zoning ordinance revisions that incorporate smart growth concepts including clustering, downzoning, conservation design and transfer of development rights (TDR); critical areas protection ordinances for steep slopes, stream corridors, wellhead areas; planning tasks that help obtain Plan Endorsement from the State Planning Commission; planning that will achieve affordable housing within the municipality while protecting the environment; intermunicipal/regional plans to protect common resources (greenways, open space, etc.).

For more information:

Special (Business) Improvement Districts: Loans & Grants
V planning
V implementation
Downtown revitalization;
NJ Department of Community Affairs

Dollar for dollar matching grants up to $10,000 from DCA to support the technical and professional services needed to establish a Special Improvement District (SID). Provides loans up to $500,000 to make capital improvements within designated downtown business improvement zones. Also provides technical assistance and acts as a clearinghouse for information concerning New Jersey's SID statute.

For more information:

State Aid for Jersey City and Newark
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges;
Note: This program only applies to Jersey City and Newark.
NJ Department of Transportation

In addition to the Municipal Aid, Jersey City and Newark are allocated additional transportation aid funds. The Cities of Jersey City and Newark must develop an Annual Transportation Program (ATP). The program must indicate each project to be undertaken and the estimated cost of each. The ATP shall be approved by Mayor and Council, and submitted to the Department of Transportation for final approval. This program is administered by the NJDOT Division of Local Aid and Economic Development.

For more information:

State and Community Highway Safety Grants
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Safety;
NJ Department of Law & Public Safety

State and Community Highway Safety grants are apportioned to the States through the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration to pay for the non-construction costs of highway safety programs aimed at the reduction of injuries, deaths, and property damage from motor vehicle accidents. These projects generally consist of developing or upgrading traffic record systems; collecting and analyzing data; conducting traffic engineering studies and analyses; developing technical guides and materials for States and local highway agencies; developing work zone safety programs; encouraging the use of safety belts and child safety seats; developing roadway safety public outreach campaigns; reducing impaired drivers; developing programs to combat drivers who speed or drive impaired; and developing programs to reduce aggressive driving. Pedestrian and bicycle projects are on the NHTSA priority list. In each state, the program is administered by a designated Highway Safety representative. In New Jersey, the designated representative is the Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety in the Department of Law and Public Safety. Pedestrian projects have been funded, including the development and dissemination of brochures and public service announcements promoting safe pedestrian practices and a 3-E (Engineering, Enforcement, Education) program in cooperation with the City of Trenton which includes road signs and crosswalk marking. Recently, cooperative pedestrian safety programs have been implemented with Jersey City and Elizabeth. This program may be repeated in other communities with high pedestrian accident experiences, where there is local support.

For more information:

Subregional Study Program
V planning
X implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Traffic calming;
Note: This program is only available in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren Counties.
North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority

This is a competitive program that provides two-year grants to individual subregions or subregional teams. The program is designed to assist subregions in refining and developing transportation improvement strategies rooted in the NJTPA's Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). Ultimately, the program aims to generate project concepts ready for further development or implementation consistent with the RTP and/or other transportation planning activities in the region.

For more information:

Transfer of Development Rights Bank / TDR Grants
V planning
V implementation
Land use; Open space;
NJ Department of Agriculture

TDR programs are designed to encourage a shift in growth away from agricultural, environmentally sensitive or open space regions of a municipality. Landowners in areas where land use is restricted are allowed to sell their development rights - or development credits. Purchasers of these credits then may use them to build elsewhere in a designated growth area at a higher density than is normally allowed in a town's zoning ordinance.

The Bank provides planning assistance grants to municipalities for costs incurred in preparing transfer of development rights (TDR) ordinances. The Bank also has the authority to purchase, or provide matching funds for the purchase of 80 percent of the value of development potential, as well as provide grants to municipal TDR banks.

Implementing a transfer of development rights program requires a major planning initiative on the part of the participating municipality. Before any credits can transfer from landowner to developer, certain planning and implementation documents must be adopted. More information can be found at OSG's TDR webpage.

For more information:

Transit Village Initiative
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Traffic calming; Streetscape improvements;
NJ Department of Transportation / NJ Transit

This program provides funds for municipalities and counties for the construction of pedestrian access and safety improvements. It includes the Safe Streets to School program. The solicitation for project applications occurs at the same time as the solicitation for municipal aid projects. Applications are solicited, evaluated, and rated by NJDOT staff. Based on this evaluation, a list of recommended projects is proposed to the Commissioner of Transportation, who makes the final selection. The program is administered by NJDOT's Division of Local Government Services.

For more information:

Transportation, Community, and System Preservation (TCSP) Program
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Land use; Traffic calming; Streetscape improvements; Trails; Scenic or historic enhancements; Travel demand management; Pollution reduction; Safety;
Federal Highway Administration

The Transportation, Community, and System Preservation (TCSP) Program is a comprehensive initiative of research and grants to investigate the relationships between transportation, community, and system preservation plans and practices and identify provide sector-based initiatives to improve such relationships. States, metropolitan planning organizations, local governments, and tribal governments are eligible for discretionary grants to carry out eligible projects to integrate transportation, community, and system preservation plans and practices that:

  • Improve the efficiency of the transportation system of the United States;
  • Reduce environmental impacts of transportation;
  • Reduce the need for costly future public infrastructure investments;
  • Ensure efficient access to jobs, services, and centers of trade;
  • Examine community development patterns and identify strategies to encourage private sector development patterns and investments that support these goals.

For more information:

Transportation Community Development Initiative (TCDI)
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Land use; Traffic calming; Streetscape improvements; Trails; Downtown revitalization;
Note: This program is only available in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Mercer Counties.
Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission

The TCDI program is intended to assist in reversing the trends of disinvestment and decline in many of the region's core cities and first generation suburbs by:

  • Supporting local planning projects that will lead to more residential, employment or retail opportunities;
  • Improving the overall character and quality of life within these communities to retain and attract business and residents, which will help to reduce the pressure for further sprawl and expansion into the growing suburbs;
  • Enhancing and utilizing the existing transportation infrastructure capacity in these areas to reduce the demands on the region's transportation network; and
  • Reducing congestion and improving the transportation system's efficiency.

For more information:

Transportation Development Districts
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Streets, roads, bridges; Traffic calming; Streetscape improvements; Trails; Scenic or historic enhancements; Safety;

Transportation development districts are regional districts created voluntarily by municipal and/or county governments to fund transportation infrastructure costs, whether transit or roadway. Costs of infrastructure improvements are borne by the public sector (taxpayers) and private developers under a predetermined cost-sharing formula based upon traffic generation or other criteria associated with the development that occasions the need for additional investment in infrastructure.

The transportation development district must have a plan of development, and should be consistent with other land use and development plans. Zoning and build-out projections by each municipality (or other entity with zoning/land use authority) should govern the infrastructure required for the district; however, in practice, the development district plan often is put into place to foster more development and at a greater intensity than that zoned or desired by the municipality.

Nevertheless, as conceived, transportation development districts are a convenient and lawful method by which municipalities and counties can agree together on methods to raise revenue to fund infrastructure and other development-related costs, and to require major contributions from the private sector without fear of claims of unconstitutional ad hoc permit exactions or ultra vires government action.

Revenue to fund infrastructure costs is raised, in addition to developer contributions, from parking fees, transportation user surcharges, and similar new or increased tax or user charges. The advantage of a TDD is that local government entities usually do not have such revenue-raising power for transportation projects.

For more information:

Transportation Enhancements
V planning
V implementation
Pedestrian improvements; Bicycle improvements; Transit improvements; Traffic calming;