NVCOG outlines MTP update and grant opportunities, urges towns to submit project priorities

NVCOG staff presented an update on the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) update and several grant programs available to municipalities and nonprofits.

Senior transportation planner Helena Rogalski said the MTP update will cover 2027–2055, is organized in three phases (data collection underway, drafting this summer, public comment by November 2026), and is intended to tie regional priorities to reasonably expected federal funding. She asked member towns to submit priority projects so staff can incorporate them in the project list due in May 2026.

Planners also reviewed grant opportunities. Staff reminded members that applications for the federal 5310 program (funding for seniors and people with disabilities) were due to Connecticut DOT and the council by March 31 (4 PM); the program covers up to 80% of capital costs or 50% of operating costs and includes capital purchases such as accessible vehicles and wheelchair lifts. Staff offered help to applicants and said NVCOG will score regional applications before sending them to CT DOT for prioritization.

In addition, staff described the state-funded active transportation microgrant program ($750,000 total, $5,000 maximum per applicant, two applications per applicant per year) and said the region submitted 39 applications in the last round (15 of 19 municipalities participated). Staff encouraged municipalities to coordinate with school and public works departments for the next quarter’s applications due June 12, 2026.

Board members asked clarifying questions about eligibility and match requirements; planners confirmed the microgrant program requires no local match and the 5310 program does require matching shares depending on project type.