Investing in transportation solutions to combat climate change

The Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) funds a wide range of projects designed to improve air quality by reducing carbon dioxide emissions from on-road highway sources. This covers activities from installing infrastructure to support the electrification of freight vehicles or personal cars, to constructing bus rapid transit corridors, to facilitating micromobility and biking.

Under the CRP, states develop carbon reduction strategies in consultation with metropolitan planning organizations, like the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), to identify projects and strategies tailored to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. During the most recent call in 2023, CMAP awarded more than $135 million to four projects.

The CMAQ, CRP, & TAP Project Selection Committee provides overall guidance for CRP development. Sign up for the transportation newsletter to learn when the next call for projects opens in 2024.

Current CRP projects

CMAP developed a $135 million, five-year program of four CRP projects that will improve air quality and reduce the impacts of climate change.

What does the CRP fund?

The CRP funds transportation projects that reduce CO2 emissions by promoting the use of alternatives to single-occupant vehicle trips. These may include projects and strategies supporting public transportation, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and shared or pooled vehicle trips. Specific examples of eligible projects include:

  • Construction or purchase of new public transportation facilities and equipment
  • Construction of bicycle or pedestrian facilities
  • Promotion of alternative travel modes, including ridesharing
  • Intelligent Transportation Systems
  • Certain traffic control measures such as traffic signal coordination, intersection improvements, and incident management
  • Projects that improve traffic flow which are eligible under the CMAQ program

Who can apply?

A CRP project sponsor must be a local government — county, municipality, township, park district, or forest preserve district — state agency, or transit agency. Other entities can apply but must partner with an eligible applicant.

Resources