2026 Tribal Transportation Program Safety Fund

This "Application Guide" outlines the application process for the Tribal Transportation Program Safety Funds (TTPSF). It details four categories: Safety Plans, Data Assessment, Improvement, and Analysis, Systemic Roadway Departure Countermeasures, and Infrastructure Improvement. The guide provides specific instructions, required application materials (e.g., application form, project narrative, countermeasure request form), and selection criteria for each category. It emphasizes data-driven safety plans and offers guidance on eligible activities, funding limits, and submission procedures. Applicants are directed to identify the appropriate category using a decision chart and contact the program manager for technical assistance. The document also includes information on OMB control, public reporting burden, and where to send comments.

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has issued an amended Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Tribal Transportation Program Safety Fund (TTPSF) Grants for Fiscal Years 2022-2026. This amendment, No. 2, removes references to rescinded Executive Orders, aligns with new orders, and provides an additional opportunity for FY 2025 applicants to amend their submissions. The TTPSF aims to reduce transportation-related deaths and serious injuries in Tribal areas, with funding ranging from $23.1 million in FY 2022 to $25.1 million in FY 2026. Eligible activities include safety plans, data assessment, systemic roadway departure countermeasures, and infrastructure improvements. Federally recognized Indian Tribes are eligible applicants, and while cost-sharing isn't required, it may be a priority consideration after initial ratings. Applications for FY 2025 revisions are due by September 16, 2025, and new applications for FY 2026 are due by January 15, 2026. The FHWA will evaluate applications competitively based on specific criteria for each award category, with an emphasis on strategic safety planning, supporting safety data, and facility ownership. Priority may be given to projects demonstrating timely implementation, leveraging other funding sources, and aligning with key Departmental objectives.

The Systemic Roadway Departure Countermeasure Request Form outlines the process for proposing roadway improvements to enhance safety and reduce departure crashes. Applicants must submit separate forms for each road segment, providing detailed location information such as road name, NTTFI route and section number, segment length, alignment (curves, tangents, or both), and surface type. The form also requires comprehensive risk data, including traffic volume, posted speed limit, lane width, paved shoulder width, and any additional factors indicating a high risk for roadway departure crashes (e.g., sharp curves, steep drop-offs, hazardous objects). Optional site photos can further support the application. The request details eligible countermeasures, such as horizontal alignment warning signs, delineators, center and edge line markings, rumble strips, and mitigation of roadside hazards to establish a clear zone. Applicants must indicate existing countermeasures and the requested funding for new improvements from the eligible list.

The 2025-2026 Tribal Transportation Program Safety Fund (TTPSF) Application Form outlines the process for tribes to apply for funding for transportation safety projects. Applicants must submit a completed form, project narrative, and supporting documentation through the provided online portal. Key requirements include selecting a funding category (Safety Plan, Data Assessment, Infrastructure Improvement, or Systemic Roadway Departure Countermeasures), providing contact and applicant information, a project abstract, and details on prior TTPSF awards. The form also requests project funding information, including TTPSF grant requests, tribal match, and other funding sources. Infrastructure Improvement and Data Assessment projects require facility inventory and ownership details. All applications must be authorized and certified by a representative, acknowledging the truthfulness of the information. Incomplete applications may not be processed.