MassDOT to launch online grant management tool on May 2

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation on May 2 will launch an online grant management tool for municipalities called Grant Central.

Cities and towns can use the portal, spearheaded by MassDOT’s Highway Division, to apply for program funding, submit project requests, and submit expense reimbursement requests.

Starting on May 2, according to MassDOT, all Chapter 90 project requests will be submitted through Grant Central (which replaces MaPIT).

Additional programs that will soon use Grant Central include:
• Complete Streets
• Local Bottleneck Reduction
• Municipal Pavement
• Municipal Small Bridge
• Shared Streets and Spaces

Beginning in mid-May, cities and towns will be able to use the portal to apply for grant programs as regularly scheduled grant rounds open. MassDOT will continue to communicate with municipalities about application deadlines for programs as the details become available.

MassDOT is encouraging municipal representatives that are responsible for community grant applications and reimbursements to register for one of the following upcoming training sessions (conducted via Zoom):
• April 23, 3 p.m. – registration
• April 25, 9 a.m. – registration
• April 29, 3 p.m. – registration
• May 2, 3 p.m. – registration
• May 7, 9 a.m. – registration
• May 9, 3 p.m. – registration

User guides will soon be available to help with the transition to a new process.

MassDOT is also seeking feedback through a Grant Central Readiness Survey. MassDOT said survey data will help with communication and training efforts.

Questions can be directed to the MassDOT Grants Team at MassDOTGrantCentral@dot.state.ma.us.