CONGESTION MITIGATION AND AIR QUALITY (CMAQ)/ TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT (TE)

The Federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 provided funds for the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) and Transportation Enhancement (TE) programs. These funding programs were carried forward in the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, the successor of ISTEA. For the current funding cycle, there are approximately $8.5M and $3.7M, available respectively for the CMAQ and TE programs in New Hampshire.

The CMAQ program was designed to encourage the development of programs and policies that manage traffic congestion and enhance air quality by reducing harmful emissions. Eligible projects for this funding include alternative “clean” fuels, demand management, education and outreach on emission issues, traffic flow improvements, transit, etc.  Eligible activities under the TE program include facilities for bicyclists and pedestrians, safety and educational activities for bicyclists and pedestrians, acquisition of scenic easements and scenic or historic sites, scenic or historic highway programs (including the provision of tourist and welcome center facilities), etc.

For the current cycle, four projects in the SNHPC region were selected for funding:

1. Traffic Signal Optimization – Submitted by NHDOT Bureau of Traffic – total cost - $300,000 (CMAQ)
2. Implementation of ITS Technology along I-93 Corridor – Submitted by NHDOT Bureau of Highway Design – total cost - $2,700,000 (CMAQ)
3. Millpond Footbridge – Submitted by New Boston Foot Traffic and Road Safety Committee – total cost - $150,000 (TE)
4. MTA Service Extension – Submitted by MTA – total cost – $1,450,000 (CMAQ)

For more information check out the following links.

General information about CMAQ

General Information about TE