Projects are selected for funding based on need and merit. In addition to funding bridges most in need of intervention, the program focuses on projects that are critical for the community. This includes considering local impacts of the bridge, such as:
- Financial need
- Emergency closure impacts
- Detour length if bridge was closed
- Response time for first responders
- Delays to school bus routes
- Delays to service providers like fuel and other critical deliveries
- Accessibility accommodations
The application provides an opportunity for municipalities to provide detail about each of the above criteria. The Municipal Small Bridge Program is a competitive grant program with many applicants each fiscal year, which means that only the most competitive applications may be funded. Visit the Project Eligibility and How to Apply pages for more program information.