The RTA Community Planning program provides funding and technical assistance to local governments to help foster the growth of sustainable, equitable, walkable, and transit-friendly communities. Since 1998, we have completed more than 200 projects.
The 2025 Call for Projects is now closed and applications are under review.
The RTA Community Planning and CMAP Technical Assistance programs assist communities with planning and implementation, provide interagency expertise that can strengthen capacity and help them better leverage the region's transit network. Learn more about how to apply below
The annual call for technical assistance – a resource tailored to help communities throughout northeastern Illinois prosper – is now open. The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), the regional metropolitan planning organization, and the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), the transit service agency with oversight, funding, and regional planning agency for the transit service boards (Chicago Transit Authority, Metra, and Pace), have partnered every year for over the past decade to help local governments build capacity and plan for their communities.
While the CMAP and the RTA have separate technical assistance programs, both agencies offer the same online application during the joint call for projects.
This coordinated approach allows CMAP and the RTA to offer planning and implementation assistance to a larger base of eligible applicants. We're also able to align these efforts with ON TO 2050, the comprehensive plan for northeastern Illinois, as well as Transit is the Answer, the regional transit strategic plan. Watch a video below to learn more.
When evaluating applications, CMAP and the RTA consider whether the proposal addresses the following priorities:
Date |
Action |
March 10, 2025 |
Application period opens |
April 4, 2025 |
Application period closes at noon |
April thru May 2025 |
CMAP and RTA review applications |
June and July 2025 |
Awardees announced |
CMAP and the RTA reviews applications in three phases:
Phase 1: Applications are submitted during this phase. Once the application period closes, CMAP and the RTA evaluate each application to determine which project types each agency will evaluate and eventually manage (e.g., the RTA reviews transit-related projects while CMAP reviews all other project types).
Phase 2: During this phase, CMAP selects a limited number of applications for follow-up interviews to gather and evaluate additional information before selecting projects. CMAP anticipates these interviews will take place between April 21 and April 25. The RTA will conduct follow-up interviews with all applicants applying for transit-related technical assistance.
Phase 3: CMAP and the RTA refine applications and determine the final list of project awards.
Below is a list of the eligible types of RTA assistance available through the call for projects.
Equitable Transit-Oriented Development Plans (eTOD) are based on the basic tenets of transit-oriented development, with mixed land uses, higher residential densities, and pedestrian friendly environments. eTOD plans move beyond traditional TOD plans by ensuring an equitable planning process that listens to the voices of all those impacted, considers a range of diverse housing types with a focus on affordability, and develops recommendations that benefit existing as well as future residents. These plans produce recommendations for an appropriate mix of land uses and transportation improvements to support increased transit ridership within a quarter- to half-mile radius of a rail station or major bus station. They also address urban design elements, including streetscape improvements, and recommend multi modal mobility improvements to and within the station area. Emphasis is placed on an equitable planning process, encouraging improved or increased access to both housing and jobs near transit, the identification of the identified health benefits of implementing TOD plan recommendations, and an in-depth understanding of the parking utilization in the study area.
Transit-specific corridor plans develop recommendations for transit-served corridors to enhance local mobility, and further advance transit-supportive land use and development guidelines along the corridor or study area. The RTA is focusing on corridors that have a high level of transit service, those identified as future Pace Pulse corridors, and other corridors with Bus Rapid Transit potential. These plans can identify ways to improve multi-modal access to existing or planned transit routes and facilities, and identify opportunities to enhance transit-related infrastructure. Transit-focused plans can also identify options to improve "last-mile" and non-traditional commuter needs by recommending improved connections among the transit services used by reverse commuters, and by identifying increased roles that employers can take to improve transit opportunities within the study area. Planning for vulnerable populations, identifying innovative ways to include economically disconnected residents, and/or studying areas that have experience disinvestment is highly encouraged. The RTA encourages transit corridor plans to be multi-jurisdictional and have a study area that crosses through two or more adjoining municipalities.
Through its strategic plan, Transit is the Answer, the RTA is committed to support efforts to improve accessibility around transit services and will work with municipalities to examine the level of access at a transit stop or station in their community We will convene transportation partners in a walking tour to observe gaps in accessibility, then develop recommendations for small-scale, short-term improvements that will benefit transit riders in the near-term. Possible improvements include sidewalk connections, crosswalks, ADA compliance, pedestrian signal heads, bus shelters, bus pads, and station amenities such as benches, wayfinding signage, etc. The plan will include one or more graphics depicting the station area improvements and an implementation strategy that recommends funding sources. These plans can be used as a basis for Access to Transit applications, or other funding sources to implement access improvements. Identifying these improvements in areas served by transit will further support access to transit. Example of Neighborhood Access to Transit Improvement Plan
As people use shared rides more often and continue to shop virtually, the need to rethink parking and curb management in urban areas, especially along bus routes and near rail stations, continues. The RTA will partner with local governments to study curb space in transit served areas to understand utilization and demand. Results will then inform our partners on strategies to manage high demand curb space, which could include zones for various uses, shared-use zones depending on time of day and strategies to better facilitate bus passenger stops. Example of Curb Management Study
The RTA will assist transit-served municipalities with planning for a special funding district in their community, such as a tax increment finance district, special service area, and business development district. Funding generated from these districts/areas can be used to implement recommendations from municipal plans. Applicants must demonstrate such a strategy is recommended in a community-driven plan or study.
RTA assistance, in partnership with the Urban Land Institute, will be provided to solicit guidance and advice from development experts through a half-day workshop with municipal staff. Panelists and municipal leaders discuss the development climate and potential strategies to prepare for and attract development in a specific site, parcel or block. These sessions most commonly take place after a planning study, such as an eTOD plan, has been completed, but can also occur during the larger planning process.
The RTA will assist local government staff to create development standards and review processes that make investment in the community more attractive to potential developers, business owners, and residents seeking to improve their property. The project team will assess the current regulations and existing conditions in the community and deliver a revised zoning ordinance, subdivision ordinance, unified development ordinance, overlay district, or other appropriate document. Applicants must demonstrate code amendments are a strategy recommended in a community-driven planning study.
Below are descriptions for the ten types of CMAP assistance and their respective goals. To help communities identify which type of CMAP assistance is ideal for their priorities, view this guide.
Creating communities that are not just compliant, but fully accessible to all and aware of accessibility challenges and the benefits of accessibility.
CMAP will work with local governments to develop a plan that complies with the Title II obligations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to help develop a self-evaluation of non-compliant transportation assets, helping communities identify improvements that can make sidewalks, crosswalks, curb ramps, and landings easier to navigate. CMAP will also encourage local staff to go beyond their legal mandates and integrate key principles of universal design into their planning processes.
Cultivating innovative approaches that implement the principles of ON TO 2050, identify networks for safe travel for all, and prepare communities for various implementation funding sources.
Local governments interested in creating a plan that identifies improvements for people walking, bicycling, and getting around without a car. Projects awarded technical assistance will receive planning support for engagement, mapping, data analysis, and recommendations for safety and livability improvements.
Cultivating innovative approaches that implement the principles of ON TO 2050 and support data-driven, transparent capital improvement planning and prepare communities for greater plan implementation success.
Under this assistance type, CMAP will support local governments by evaluating existing capital planning processes, providing recommendations and training that can help develop a transparent, strategic and successful planning process, and working with the community to create a multi-year capital improvement plan (CIP).
Cultivating innovative approaches that implement the principles of ON TO 2050 and interweave roadway safety improvements, multimodal transportation options, inclusive economic growth, and regional housing needs.
CMAP will work with local governments to develop a plan that addresses transportation and other improvements in a neighborhood, business district, corridor, riverfront, or other focus areas. Under this offering, CMAP also will help develop goals for improvements, propose specific projects to address these goals, and create a strategy to implement recommendations. CMAP encourages multijurisdictional applications, as regional collaboration is priority.
Cultivating innovative approaches that implement the principles of ON TO 2050 and prepare communities to prioritize projects, apply for grants, and successfully manage external funding.
CMAP will help local governments to strengthen processes to secure funding opportunities and successfully manage awarded funds through completion of construction . Municipalities will receive support to prepare for grant opportunities, establish consensus on priority transportation projects, identify the next steps for implementation, and receive resources to seek out and manage grant funding.
Developing innovative approaches that implement the principles of ON TO 2050, plan for a robust housing market, and embrace coordinated land use strategies.
Communities interested in promoting a robust, inclusive housing market are encouraged to apply for Housing readiness assistance. CMAP will work with local governments to analyze housing demand, availability, and land use; identify barriers to housing development; and craft actionable, economically viable solutions to broaden local housing choice.
Cultivating innovative approaches that implement the principles of ON TO 2050 and support communities capacity to organize plan implementation efforts and achieve plan goals.
Local governments seeking to take the next steps toward achieving the outcomes outlined in local plans, including past CMAP and RTA plans, should consider applying for the NEXT program. CMAP will work with communities to help organize implementation efforts, prioritize planned improvements, promote economic prosperity, develop an action plan, and assist with executing the action plan.
Cultivating innovative approaches that implement the principles of ON TO 2050 and accelerate adoption of infrastructure improvements, particularly evidence-based tools to make transportation investment decisions.
Communities interested in the most cost-effective way to address pavement needs and achieve prioritized pavement condition targets should consider CMAP’s pavement management plan technical assistance. Projects awarded through this offering will receive support from an engineering firm to create a document that emphasizes the importance of using evidence-based tools in pavement preservation, describes the current condition of pavement, evaluates cost, and uses the results to develop a capital plan.
Cultivating innovative approaches that implement the principles of ON TO 2050 and supports market and fiscal feasibility when planning for the use or reuse of sites that leverage the existing transportation network.
In this assistance type, CMAP will work with local governments to develop a subarea site plan for a publicly owned infill site or sites, incorporating the ON TO 2050 principles of resilience, inclusive growth, and prioritized investment into the land use planning process. Studying the underused infill site will determine how redevelopment could and should leverage the existing transportation network; attract inclusive investment and development; broaden diversity in housing choices; enhance the usability of the public right-of-way by non-vehicular modes; expand transportation connections to key destinations; increase roadway safety for all modes; expand community empowerment and equitable engagement; and provide an action plan to implement plan recommendations.
Cultivating innovative approaches that implement the principles of ON TO 2050 to develop safety action plans and prepare communities for funding available under the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
CMAP will work with local governments to analyze safety-related issues for pedestrians, bicyclists, drivers, and all other modes within communities or specific areas like corridors and intersections. The analysis developed through this offering will look at crash histories, safety concerns, and barriers or gaps in networks that hinder mobility. Community-wide safety action plans will align with the goals of U.S. Department of Transportation to improve safety through a wholistic and comprehensive analysis of data and engagement with stakeholders and residents.
Each year, CMAP considers the types of assistance offered based on regional needs and opportunities, as well as funding constraints. Through ongoing conversations with communities, CMAP hears about many different planning needs. And we've listened.
CMAP's technical assistance types this year cover a range of projects and include a new one: housing readiness. At this time, CMAP is not offering comprehensive planning assistance. Please contact Patrick Day at pday@cmap.illinois.gov with any questions.
Funding for this program comes from a combination of federal, state, local, and foundation funds administered by CMAP and the RTA.
A PDF copy of the application is available to view questions before submitting an application. Applicants can also save a draft of their application by clicking save and resume later.
See a summary and details of CMAP projects awarded in 2024. Please visit CMAP's website, RTA's website, and RTAMS to learn more about previously awarded plans.
To help CMAP and the RTA understand which types of technical assistance are the highest priority for your community, you may apply for up to two types of assistance by completing a separate application form.
Funds available through these programs are for planning and implementation purposes only. Project phases — such as land acquisition, engineering, or capital investment — cannot be funded through these programs, at this time. Additionally, these programs do not offer funds for staff time. Any financial commitment from CMAP or the RTA is dedicated to hiring external contractors/consultants or providing CMAP or RTA staff assistance. This year's programs focus on creating local plans and building local governments' capacity.
Local governments (municipalities and counties) throughout northeastern Illinois, non-governmental organizations that partner with a local government on a joint application are eligible to apply for CMAP. The RTA will accept applications from local governments and the transit service boards (CTA, Metra, and Pace).
An overall timeline is outlined above. CMAP and the RTA will begin reviewing applications immediately after the close of the application period at noon April 4. Once the initial applications are evaluated, applicants may be contacted to provide further information via a survey and/or an interview. Applicants will be notified about final selections and subsequent steps for projects admitted into the program by the agency that will award the project.
CMAP will select projects based on agency priorities and available resources. Once the applications are evaluated, an applicant may be contacted to provide further information via a survey and/or an interview.
Proposed projects are reviewed by CMAP staff, partner technical assistance providers, county departments of transportation, planning directors, applicable transit service board(s), and the Illinois Department of Transportation for funding eligibility. Additionally, the Chicago Department of Planning and Development and the Chicago Department of Transportation review proposed projects within the City.
The RTA will evaluate transit-related projects based on agency priorities and the goals of the regional transit strategic plan. The RTA will select projects based on the resources available.
Potential transit-related projects are reviewed by RTA staff, partner technical assistance providers, transit service boards, and other coordinating agencies as needed. The RTA will contact applicants to provide further information via an interview. The RTA also will prioritize applicants from cohorts 3 and 4, but communities from all cohorts are welcome to apply.
CMAP and the RTA have limited resources for these programs, and not all applications will be selected. Historically, CMAP and the RTA have selected less than 40 percent of the applications received.
Each transit agency that may be impacted by a study is invited to participate in the planning process. Additionally, it may be appropriate to involve CMAP in an RTA-led project and vice versa. Applicants are encouraged to coordinate project applications with the impacted transit service board(s) by emailing a brief description of their project to the appropriate contact listed below.
CTA |
Samuel Smith |
SSmith4@transitchicago.com |
Metra |
Paul Reise |
preise@metrarr.com |
Pace |
Erik Llewellyn |
erik.llewellyn@pacebus.com |
CMAP and the RTA regularly partner with several technical assistance providers on projects, including Active Transportation Alliance, Center for Neighborhood Technology, Chicago Community Trust, Elevated Energy, Illinois Housing Development Authority, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, Metropolitan Planning Council, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, National Trust for Historic Preservation, Openlands, and the Urban Land Institute.
Project development begins once a project is selected. The RTA and CMAP's goal is to initiate most of the projects by the summer or fall of 2025.
A CMAP or RTA staff member or representative will be assigned to each project to assist with project development and management. The local partner will be responsible for overall project management. Administrative and invoicing responsibilities will vary, depending on the assigned agency and procurement method.
CMAP and the RTA require an intergovernmental agreement to be signed and, if a program contribution is required, a resolution to be approved before starting a project.
In 2015, CMAP established a policy to require a program contribution for assistance. This financial contribution has helped demonstrate local commitment and increased local ownership of the projects. To provide transparency, predictability, and consistency in the program contribution amounts, the schedule of Program Contributions by Project Type may be revised and republished from time to time as deemed necessary.
The RTA requires a local match, which also is based on community cohort, for larger projects. The match is waived for smaller implementation projects.
A contribution for projects selected by CMAP depends on the project’s type and community cohort. Contributions are not required for all projects. Learn more about the program contribution and see a schedule of CMAP's program contribution amounts.
The RTA will require a local match for larger planning projects ranging from 5 percent to20 percent, based on the CMAP community cohort. The local match is waived for smaller implementation projects.
No. Applicants are not required to pay the program contribution when applying. CMAP expects applicants to have the program contribution available once a project starts. The due date of a program contribution will be negotiated as part of the intergovernmental agreement. CMAP and RTA are flexible with project start dates and can work around local budget cycles. In most cases, the RTA will invoice for program contribution payments once a project completes.
During the project review and evaluation process, staff members may contact applicants to gain a better understanding of their project. After selection, the agencies confirm with the project sponsors whether the project will be accomplished through assigning staff time, providing a grant, conducting a consultant selection process led by CMAP or RTA, or other options.
Please contact us at applications@cmap.illinois.gov or applications@rtachicago.org. You also can contact Patrick Day at pday@cmap.illinois.gov or Michael Horsting at michael.horsting@rtachicago.org directly with any questions.
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