RALEIGH — The N.C. Department of Transportation is accepting proposals from communities for the 2015 Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Grant Initiative. In its 10th year, the program provides funding for municipalities across the state to develop comprehensive bicycle and/or pedestrian plans. Smaller communities with populations of less than 5,000 are also encouraged to apply, and also have the option to develop combined bicycle and pedestrian plans.

The deadline for applications is Dec. 4 at 5 p.m. All applications must be submitted electronically. Award recipients will be notified in June 2015.

“Comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Plans have a positive impact on the economy, health and safety; and are the first steps in laying the groundwork for future projects that promote options for bicycling and walking locally,” said Lauren Blackburn, Director of the Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation.

The program is sponsored by NCDOT’s Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation and the Transportation Planning Branch. Since 2004, nearly $4.1 million has been awarded through the program to 155 municipalities across the state.

Plans that are funded are not for one specific project, but represent a comprehensive strategy for expanding bicycle and pedestrian opportunities within a given municipality. These plans address facilities, programs, services and regulations that encourage safe walking and bicycling.

Proposals are judged in geographical groups to help establish equitable distribution of funding across the state. Also, award recipients are specifically chosen to incorporate a diverse mix of municipalities from large cities to small towns.

For more information on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Grant Initiative, contact Bryan Poole at 919-707-2608 orbwpoole@ncdot.gov.