Funds will again be available for federal Transportation Enhancement (TE) projects in Mendocino County, when the next six-year federal transportation bill is authorized by Congress in 2010. The TE funds are allocated by regional transportation planning agencies. On December 6, 2004, MCOG allocated approximately $2 million for these projects, based on the fund estimate available at the time. Based on the most recent estimate, MCOG has reserved for later allocation the remaining amount available from that funding cycle at $714,000.

Projects that enhance the surface transportation system (above and beyond required mitigations), such as bicycle and pedestrian trails, scenic and historic preservation, landscaping and beautification, and wildlife habitat connectivity, are eligible.

MCOG closed the application period on October 15, 2004. Twelve applications were received from qualified entities. The Technical Advisory Committee reviewed, scored, and ranked the applications and made a recommendation to the Board of Directors. Awards were made on December 6, 2004 (see press release under "News" on this site).

Prior recipients of TE funds awarded by MCOG include: the County Museum for the Redwood Empire Railroad History Project, Point Arena for the Coastal Access Scenic Bikeway, and the City of Ukiah for their Major Transportation Corridor Enhancement Project, to plant more than 200 trees and improve sidewalks in the city.

For more information, please contact Nephele Barrett, Senior Planner.

- Above: Redwood Empire Railroad History Project at Mendocino County Museum in Willits