MassDOT launches Local Bottleneck Reduction Program

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation is launching a Local Bottleneck Reduction competitive grant program to fund innovative solutions to address local congestion bottlenecks at intersections.

Every municipality in Massachusetts is eligible for the program, and applications are being accepted through Nov. 15. While there are no maximum grant limits for this program, it is anticipated that project grants for fiscal 2022 will range between $50,000 and $200,000.

The Local Bottleneck Reduction Program, authorized by the 2021 transportation bond bill, will target individual signalized intersections or small corridors with multiple signalized intersections that contribute to travel delays.

During fiscal 2022, program funding will be used to address operational delays that are created from poor traffic signal timing, outdated equipment, or the lack of adequate vehicle detection to promote efficient movement of traffic for all approaches. In future years, eligible bottleneck reduction strategies will be expanded to include larger efforts, such as intersection reconstruction.

Typical eligible project types for fiscal 2022 include:
• Traffic signal retiming
• Traffic signal controller and cabinet upgrades
• Traffic signal priority equipment (with endorsement from transit agency)
• Vehicle detection installation, repairs, or replacement
• Coordination of multiple traffic signals

Municipalities do not need to apply for specific project types if they are not sure of the best solution for improving a particular bottleneck. Municipalities may simply propose a location for funding if they believe it can be improved with an eligible project type.

For selected projects, the MassDOT will develop a project scope within the parameters of the program based on information provided in the application, as well as additional coordination with the community.

Project locations are proposed by municipalities and considered by the MassDOT for funding through a competitive application process. A single application may propose improvements at multiple intersections in the same corridor. Only signalized intersections owned and operated entirely by a municipality may be considered.

Selection is based primarily on congestion and delay metrics. Additional evaluation criteria include:
• Project proximity to the state highway network
• Whether the project is located within an Environmental Justice Community
• Whether the project is located within one mile of a school
• Whether the project is located on a fixed transit route

Applications are being accepted online through MassDOT’s Massachusetts Project Intake Tool (MaPIT).

Only municipal officials may submit applications. Applications that are selected after an initial screening will be followed by a site visit to confirm the work to be conducted. If a project is advanced to implementation, the MassDOT will oversee the work.

For details on how to apply, visit www.mass.gov/info-details/how-to-apply-to-the-local-bottleneck-reduction-program.

The Local Bottleneck Reduction Program was authorized in the 2021 transportation bond bill for $50 million over five years. Through the MassDOT’s Capital Investment Plan, $2.5 million has been allocated for this program in fiscal 2022.

For more information about the Local Bottleneck Reduction Program, visit: www.mass.gov/local-bottleneck-reduction-program. For more information about other MassDOT grant programs, visit geodot-local-massdot.hub.arcgis.com/pages/grants.