The Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP), administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), is the state’s largest funding source for walking, biking, and trail improvements, helping make communities safer, healthier, and more connected.
In 2026, IDOT is making $157 million available through ITEP — the largest annual amount to date.
Applications can be submitted August 2026 through October 2026. There is a maximum award amount of $5 million per project and a potential match assistance for communities with high economic need.
To help communities submit strong, competitive applications, the Active Transportation Alliance (ATA) and Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) are offering free technical assistance to 15 suburban Cook County municipalities seeking ITEP funding to improve walking and biking options.
In addition, seven of the participating suburban Cook County communities will also be selected through a raffle to receive $2,000 to support small-scale safe streets improvements, such as pedestrian crossing signage or bike racks.
To be considered for technical assistance, please complete the request form by Monday, May 11. Fifteen suburban Cook County communities will be selected to receive ITEP application support.
What support will you receive? Communities selected for the program will receive hands-on help developing a competitive ITEP grant application, including:
-
- One-on-one grant support sessions with ATA staff. We will schedule three calls with your team between June 2026 and September 2026.
-
- Customized work plan and application checklist
-
- Guidance writing the ITEP narrative
-
- Help gathering safety data, maps, and letters of support
-
- Peer-learning opportunities
What is expected if you are selected to receive support?
-
- Team commitment: Two team members must commit to working on the 2026 ITEP application with ATA staff
-
- Teams should include at least one municipal staff member and one additional partner (e.g. staff, consultant, or volunteer)
-
- Project focus: A clear interest in advancing projects such as sidewalks, trails, bike facilities, or safer crossings that improve access to community destinations
-
- Meeting participation: Availability for at least one team member to attend
-
-
-
- Three 1-hour virtual TA meetings with ATA staff (scheduled between June 2026 and September 2026 based on your team’s availability)
-
-
-
-
-
- Cook County-focused ITEP Webinar (July 22, 23, or 24; date TBD)
-
-
-
-
-
- ITEP Cohort Webinar 1 (August 18 or 19; date TBD)
-
-
-
-
-
- ITEP Cohort Webinar 2 (September 22, 23, or 24; date TBD)
-
-
-
-
-
- Optional (but encouraged): Statewide ITEP webinar series on July 15, August 12, and September 16 from 11 am to 1 pm
-
-
Who is eligible to receive technical assistance?
-
- Municipalities or partner organizations in suburban Cook County who would like to apply for 2026 ITEP
-
- Requests that clearly demonstrate a need for support and reflect staff commitment to attend virtual trainings and technical assistance sessions.
-
- Priority will be given to Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) Cohort 3 and 4 communities, though other communities are still encouraged to apply.
-
- Teams should be committed to submitting an ITEP application in 2026 (applications due October 5)
To request technical assistance on your 2026 ITEP application, please complete the following form by Monday, May 11: Form to Request ITEP Technical Assistance