MPO staff warn of steep federal planning cuts in FY27–28 UPWP; public comment period opened

MPO staff on Jan. 28 presented the draft FY27–28 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), saying the metropolitan planning organization will receive only $198,149 in federal planning funds for the two-year period.

Pat and Katie (staff presenters) characterized the drop as a sharp reduction—about $207,000 less than in 2024—and said the draft trims services heavily, including eliminating all contract service agreements that typically cover asset management work and support for Bloomington Transit. Staff said the reduction stems from per-capita federal allocations tied to census population; the presenters noted population measures fell after the 2020 census when many students left campus, reducing the MPO’s allocation.

Staff also said the City of Bloomington received a $1.4 million Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant in 2025, which will be supported through MPO planning by corridor studies, public engagement and concept designs; demonstration activities could include temporary conversions and pilot traffic-calming measures. Staff told the committee that federal reauthorization by Sept. 30 could change funding outcomes, but the likelihood of a continuing resolution this election year could freeze current funding levels.

The UPWP draft is subject to a legally required 30-day public comment period; staff said a legal notice was published but contained an error about the adoption date and that the public comment window remains open until Feb. 21. Members were urged to submit written comments for the FHWA, FTA and INDOT record.

No formal TAC action was required that day; staff will forward comments and the draft to the policy committee for consideration and adoption.