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Consideration of request from Engineering Division to support a 2026-2030 Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant application for the preparation of a Wauwatosa Active Transportation Plan to replace the 2014 Bicycle & Pedestrian Facilities Plan
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Submitted by:
Michael May, PE, PTOE, RSP1
Elizabeth Saunderson, PE
Department:
DPW-Engineering
A. Issue
The Wauwatosa Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Plan is out of date.
B. Background/Options
The existing Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Plan was adopted in 2014. The 2014 plan was developed to guide transportation improvement projects with a focus on developing connected networks and removing barriers for bicyclists and pedestrians. It laid out goals and recommendations for the City and supported the 2008 Comprehensive Plan. In the eleven years since the plan was adopted, transportation needs, community priorities, city policies and plans, and multimodal design standards have substantially evolved.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation, in coordination with the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Plan Commission, selects and administers TAP grants through federal funding. TAP grants, if awarded, reimburse up to 80% of costs associated with eligible grant activities.
The Engineering Division seeks to prepare a new Wauwatosa Active Transportation Plan (ATP) to replace the 2014 plan. The ATP would provide a comprehensive and data-driven framework for improving walking and cycling as well as other forms of active transportation through the City of Wauwatosa. Such a plan is an eligible grant activity under the TAP guidelines.
The TAP grant application is due on or before October 31st. A resolution of support from Common Council is required to be submitted no later than December 29th. Staff seeks the resolution of support in advance of the October 31st application date to further strengthen the application. Awards are expected to be announced in June of 2026.
C. Strategic Plan (Area of Focus)
Priority 2: Public Safety, Goal 2. Proactively address pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular safety.
Priority 3: Infrastructure, Goal 2. Ensure the City’s infrastructure supports public health through multimodal transportation and recreation opportunities.
D. Fiscal Impact
No cost for the grant application.
At this time staff estimates the cost for the plan will be approximately $150,000, of which the TAP grant will reimburse the City approximately $120,000 (80%). If a TAP grant is awarded, staff will return to the Common Council for approval of a State-Municipal Agreement which will identify the TAP grant and City contribution amounts.
E. Recommendation
Recommend Common Council pass a resolution supporting a 2026-2030 Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant application for the preparation of a Wauwatosa Active Transportation Plan to replace the 2014 Bicycle & Pedestrian Facilities Plan