FY 2010 Discretionary Funding Opportunity: Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program, 27109-27112 [2010-11474]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 92 / Thursday, May 13, 2010 / Notices [FR Doc. 2010–11479 Filed 5–12–10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–57–C DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Transit Administration FY 2010 Discretionary Funding Opportunity: Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program Federal Transit Administration (FTA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of Availability: Solicitation of Project Proposals. sroberts on DSKD5P82C1PROD with NOTICES AGENCY: SUMMARY: The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announces the availability of approximately $24.5 million in discretionary Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program (Transit in Parks Program) funds. This notice solicits proposals to compete for FY 2010 funds under the program, which was established by Section 3021 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient, Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy For Users (SAFETEA–LU), as amended (49 U.S.C. 5320). The program is administered by FTA in partnership with U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service. The program funds capital and planning expenses for alternative transportation systems such as buses and trams in federally-managed parks and public lands. Federal land management agencies, as well as State, tribal and local governments acting with the consent of a Federal land management agency are eligible to apply. DOI, after consultation with and in cooperation with FTA, will determine the final selection and funding of projects. Geographic diversity will be considered when allocating funds. This announcement is available on the FTA Web site at: https://www.fta.dot.gov. FTA will announce final selections on the Web site and in the Federal Register. A synopsis of this funding opportunity will be posted in the FIND module of the government-wide electronic grants Web site at https://www.grants.gov. DATES: Complete proposals must be received by 12 midnight EST on June 28, 2010. ADDRESSES: Project proposals must be submitted electronically through the GRANTS.GOV Web site and applicants must be properly registered. Anyone intending to apply electronically through GRANTS.GOV should initiate the process of registering on the GRANTS.GOV site immediately to VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:56 May 12, 2010 Jkt 220001 ensure completion of registration before the deadline for submission. GRANTS.GOV applicants should receive two confirmation e-mails. The first will confirm that the application was received and a subsequent e-mail will be sent within 24–48 hours indicating whether the application was validated or rejected by the system. If interested parties experience difficulties at any point during the registration or application process, please call the GRANTS.GOV Customer Support Hotline at 1–800–518–4726, MondayFriday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST. The required electronic project proposal template as well as guidance on completing a proposal template can also be found on GRANTS.GOV and on the program Web site at https:// www.fta.dot.gov/funding/grants/ grants_financing_6106.html. Contact the appropriate FTA Regional Administrator (Appendix A) for proposal-specific information and issues or the appropriate land management agency (Appendix B) for the Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program. For general program information, contact Kimberly Sledge, Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program, (202) 366– 2053, Kimberly.Sledge@dot.gov. A TDD is available at 1–800–877–8339 (TDD/ FIRS). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Table of Contents I. Overview II. Program Purpose III. Program Information 1. Eligible Applicants 2. Eligible Projects 3. Cost Sharing and Matching 4. Proposal Content 5. Evaluation Criteria IV. Technical Assistance and Other Program Information Appendix A—FTA Regional Offices Appendix B—Land Management Agency Contacts I. Overview Section 3021 of SAFETEA–LU, as amended, established the Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program (Transit in Parks Program) (49 U.S.C. 5320). The program is administered by FTA in partnership with DOI and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service. Congestion in and around parks and public lands causes traffic delays, noise, and air pollution that substantially detract from the visitor’s experience and the protection of natural resources. In August 2001, the U.S. Department of Transportation and DOI published a comprehensive study of alternative PO 00000 Frm 00192 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 27109 transportation needs in national parks and related Federal lands. The study identified significant alternative transportation needs at sites managed by the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Additionally, a supplement to this report identified Forest Service sites that would benefit from such services. II. Program Purpose The purpose of the program is to enhance the protection of national parks and Federal lands, and increase the enjoyment of visitors’ experience by conserving natural, historical, and cultural resources; reducing congestion and pollution; improving visitor mobility and accessibility; enhancing the visitor experience; and ensuring access to all, including persons with disabilities. III. Program Information 1. Eligible Applicants Eligible applicants are Federal land management agencies that manage an eligible area, including but not limited to the National Park Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Forest Service, and the Bureau of Reclamation; and State, tribal and local governments with jurisdiction over land in the vicinity of an eligible area, acting with the consent of a Federal land management agency, alone or in partnership with a Federal land management agency or other governmental or non-governmental participant. Note: If the applicant is a State, tribal, or local government, a letter from the affected unit(s) of the Federal land management agency or agencies expressing support for the project should be submitted with the project proposal. Proposals with support letters from the unit of the Federal land management agency or agencies will be weighted more favorably by FTA, DOI, and the Forest Service in its evaluation. 2. Eligible Projects SAFETEA–LU defines alternative transportation as ‘‘transportation by bus, rail, or any other publicly or privately owned conveyance that provides to the public general or special service on a regular basis, including sightseeing service. This also includes a nonmotorized transportation system (including the provision of facilities for pedestrians, bicycles, and nonmotorized watercraft).’’ The program funds capital and planning expenses for alternative transportation systems such as buses and trams in federally-managed parks E:\FR\FM\13MYN1.SGM 13MYN1 27110 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 92 / Thursday, May 13, 2010 / Notices and public lands. A qualified planning or capital project is within the vicinity of a federally-owned or managed park, refuge, or recreational area that is open to the general public and meets the goals of the program. Operating expenses are not eligible under the program. A project proposal may include up to 15 percent for project administration, contingency, and oversight. As specified in 49 U.S.C. 5320(b)(5), the following types of projects are eligible: sroberts on DSKD5P82C1PROD with NOTICES a. Planning Activities to comply with metropolitan and statewide planning provisions (49 U.S.C. 5320(b)(5)(A) referencing 49 U.S.C. 5303, 5304, 5305). Activities include planning studies for an alternative transportation system including evaluation of no-build and all other reasonable alternatives, traffic studies, visitor utilization studies, transportation analysis, feasibility studies, and environmental studies. b. Capital Eligible capital projects include all aspects of ‘‘acquiring, constructing, supervising, or inspecting equipment or a facility for use in public transportation, expenses incidental to the acquisition or construction (including designing, engineering, location surveying, mapping, and acquiring rights-of-way), payments for the capital portions of rail trackage rights agreements, transit-related intelligent transportation systems, relocation assistance, acquiring replacement housing sites, and acquiring, constructing, relocating, and rehabilitating replacement housing.’’ Capital projects may include those projects operated by an outside entity, such as a public transportation agency, state or local government, private company engaged in public transportation, or private non-profit organization. Projects may also include the deployment/commercialization of alternative transportation vehicles that introduce innovative technologies or methods. The capital cost of leasing vehicles is an eligible expense under the program. For vehicle acquisition projects, sponsors should compare the costeffectiveness of leasing versus purchasing vehicles. Leasing may be particularly cost effective in circumstances in which transit service is only needed during a peak visitation period that lasts only a few months. In these cases, leasing a vehicle for a few months during the year may be less expensive than purchasing a vehicle only used for a few months during the VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:56 May 12, 2010 Jkt 220001 year. An award can cover the capital cost of leasing vehicles but not the cost of operations, such as fuel or driver’s salary. Project sponsors should also compare the cost effectiveness of providing service versus contracting for service. The capital portion of contracted service is an eligible capital expense under the program. For example, if a public land agency contracts with a private bus company to provide shuttle service with privately owned buses, the portion of the contract that covers the capital expense of the buses is an eligible expense under the Transit in Parks Program. Operating expenses are not eligible under the program. Project sponsors will be asked to compare the cost-effectiveness of their preferred option to other alternatives in the financial sustainability portion of the proposal. The SAFETEA–LU legislation includes language allowing eligibility of ‘‘fixed guideway’’ projects. These are defined as those transportation projects that run on a dedicated right of way, like a light rail, trolley, bus rapid transit, or any type of ferry system. For these types of projects, eligible projects can include development of a new fixed guideway project; rehabilitation or modernization of existing fixed guideway systems; and expansion of existing systems. For bus or shuttle projects, eligible projects can include purchase of buses and related equipment; replacement of buses and related equipment; rehabilitation of buses and related equipment; construction of bus-related facilities such as bus shelters; and purchase of rolling stock that incorporates clean fuel technology or the replacement of buses of a type in use on August 10, 2005, with clean fuel vehicles. The Transit in Parks Program specifically includes these other eligible capital projects: (1) The capital costs of coordinating Federal land management agency public transportation systems with other public transportation systems. (2) Non-motorized transportation systems (including the provision of facilities for pedestrians, bicycles and non-motorized watercraft). (3) Water-borne access systems within or in the vicinity of an eligible area as appropriate and consistent with 49 U.S.C. 5320. (4) Any other alternative transportation project that enhances the environment; prevents or mitigates an adverse impact on a natural resource; improves Federal land management agency resource management; improves visitor mobility and accessibility and PO 00000 Frm 00193 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 the visitor experience; reduces congestion and pollution (including noise pollution and visual pollution); or conserves a natural, historical, or cultural resource (excluding rehabilitation or restoration of a nontransportation facility). In order to be considered for funding a project must consist of one or more of the eligible activities listed above, meet the definition of alternative transportation, and contribute to the goals of the program. 3. Financial Limitations and Cost Sharing No one project may receive more than 25 percent of the available funds. Additionally, projects selected for funding under the Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in the Parks Program can be funded at up to 100 percent Federal share. 4. Proposal Content The required electronic project proposal template as well as guidance on completing a proposal template can be found on GRANTS.GOV and on the program Web site at https:// www.fta.dot.gov/funding/grants/ grants_financing_6106.html. Proposals should not exceed 10 pages (excluding the standard form 424) and use 12 pt. font. 5. Evaluation Criteria Proposed planning projects will be evaluated based on the following criteria: a. Demonstration of Need (1) Visitor mobility and experience (current or anticipated problem); and (2) Environmental (current or anticipated problem). b. Methodology for Assessing Visitor Mobility and Experience Benefits of Project (1) Reduced traffic congestion; (2) Enhanced visitor mobility, accessibility, and safety; and (3) Improved visitor education, recreation, and health benefits. c. Methodology for Assessing Environmental Benefits of Project (1) Protection of sensitive natural, cultural, and historic resources; and (2) Reduced pollution (air, noise, visual). d. Methodology for Assessing Financial and Operational Efficiency Sustainability of Alternatives (1) Effectiveness in meeting management goals; (2) Realistic financial plan; E:\FR\FM\13MYN1.SGM 13MYN1 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 92 / Thursday, May 13, 2010 / Notices (3) Cost effectiveness; and (4) Partnering, funding from other sources, and/or innovative financing. Proposed capital projects will be evaluated based on the following criteria: a. Demonstration of Need (1) Visitor mobility and experience (current or anticipated problem); and (2) Environmental (current or anticipated problem). b. Visitor Mobility and Experience Benefits of Project (1) Reduced traffic congestion; (2) Enhanced visitor mobility, accessibility, and safety; and (3) Improved visitor education, recreation, and health benefits. c. Environmental Benefits of Project (1) Protection of sensitive natural, cultural, and historic resources; and (2) Reduced pollution (air, noise, visual). 27111 d. Financial Sustainability and Operational Efficiency IV. Technical Assistance and other Program Information (1) Effectiveness in meeting management goals; (2) Realistic financial plan; (3) Cost effectiveness; and (4) Partnering, funding from other sources, and/or innovative financing. A special note on non-motorized transportation systems: While nonmotorized systems, such as trails, are eligible under the program, not all nonmotorized systems will meet the goals of the program needed to be considered for funding. Like motorized systems, in order to be considered for funding, nonmotorized systems must reduce or mitigate the number of auto trips by providing an alternative to travel by private auto. In addition, non-motorized systems must provide a high degree of connectivity within a transportation system. Finally, they should improve safety for motorized and non-motorized transportation system users. Complete proposals must be submitted via GRANTS.GOV by June 28, 2010. Frequently asked questions and other program information are available at https://www.fta.dot.gov/atppl. Projects selected for funding will be required to report quarterly and submit performance data to the appropriate agency. Detailed information on reporting will be included in the Federal Register notice announcing projects selected for funding. Technical assistance regarding the program is available by contacting Kimberly Sledge, Federal Transit Administration, (202) 366–2053, kimberly.sledge@dot.gov or the appropriate Federal land management agency contact (see Appendix B). Issued in Washington, DC, May 7, 2010. Peter Rogoff, Administrator. Appendix A FTA REGIONAL AND METROPOLITAN OFFICES Richard H. Doyle, Regional Administrator, Region 1—Boston, Kendall Square, 55 Broadway, Suite 920, Cambridge, MA 02142–1093, Tel. 617–494–2055. States served: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Brigid Hynes-Cherin, Regional Administrator, Region 2—New York, One Bowling Green, Room 429, New York, NY 10004–1415, Tel. 212–668–2170. States served: New Jersey, New York. New York Metropolitan Office, Region 2—New York, One Bowling Green, Room 428, New York, NY 10004–1415, Tel. 212–668–2202. Letitia Thompson, Regional Administrator, Region 3—Philadelphia, 1760 Market Street, Suite 500, Philadelphia, PA 19103–4124, Tel. 215–656–7100. States served: Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and District of Columbia. Philadelphia Metropolitan Office, Region 3—Philadelphia, 1760 Market Street, Suite 500, Philadelphia, PA 19103–4124, Tel. 215–656–7070. Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Office, 1990 K Street, NW., Room 510, Washington, DC 20006, Tel. 202–219–3562. Yvette Taylor, Regional Administrator, Region 4—Atlanta, 230 Peachtree Street, NW,. Suite 800, Atlanta, GA 30303, Tel. 404–865–5600. States served: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virgin Islands. sroberts on DSKD5P82C1PROD with NOTICES Marisol Simon, Regional Administrator, Region 5—Chicago, 200 West Adams Street, Suite 320, Chicago, IL 60606, Tel. 312–353–2789. States served: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Chicago Metropolitan Office, Region 5—Chicago, 200 West Adams Street, Suite 320, Chicago, IL 60606, Tel. 312–353–2789. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:56 May 12, 2010 Jkt 220001 PO 00000 Frm 00194 Fmt 4703 Robert C. Patrick, Regional Administrator, Region 6—Ft. Worth, 819 Taylor Street, Room 8A36, Ft. Worth, TX 76102, Tel. 817–978–0550. States served: Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Texas. Mokhtee Ahmad, Regional Administrator, Region 7—Kansas City, MO, 901 Locust Street, Room 404, Kansas City, MO 64106, Tel. 816– 329–3920. States served: Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. Terry Rosapep, Regional Administrator, Region 8–Denver, 12300 West Dakota Ave., Suite 310, Lakewood, CO 80228–2583, Tel. 720–963– 3300. States served: Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Leslie T. Rogers, Regional Administrator, Region 9—San Francisco, 201 Mission Street, Room 1650, San Francisco, CA 94105–1926, Tel. 415–744–3133. States served: American Samoa, Arizona, California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Northern Mariana Islands. Los Angeles Metropolitan Office, Region 9—Los Angeles, 888 S. Figueroa Street, Suite 1850, Los Angeles, CA 90017–1850, Tel. 213–202–3952. Rick Krochalis, Regional Administrator, Region 10—Seattle, Jackson Federal Building, 915 Second Avenue, Suite 3142, Seattle, WA 98174–1002, Tel. 206–220–7954. States served: Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\13MYN1.SGM 13MYN1 27112 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 92 / Thursday, May 13, 2010 / Notices Appendix B Federal Land Management Agencies Transit in Parks Program Contacts • National Park Service: Mark H. Hartsoe, Mark_H_Hartsoe@nps.gov; telephone: 202– 513–7025, fax: 202–371–6675, mail: 1849 C Street, NW., (MS2420); Washington, DC 20240–0001 • Fish and Wildlife Service: Nathan Caldwell, Nathan_Caldwell@fws.gov, telephone: 703–358–2205, fax: 703–358– 2517, mail: 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Room 634, Arlington, VA 22203 • Forest Service: Floyd Thompson, Fthompson02@fs.fed.us, telephone: 202– 205–1423, mail: 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250–1101 • Bureau of Land Management: Victor F. Montoya, Victor_Montoya@blm.gov, telephone: 202–912–7041, mail: 1620 L Street, WO–854, Washington, DC 20036 [FR Doc. 2010–11474 Filed 5–12–10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–57–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration Notice of Intent to Rule on Request for a Change in Use of Aeronautical Property at the Williamsport Regional Airport, Williamsport, PA sroberts on DSKD5P82C1PROD with NOTICES AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of request for a Change in Use of Aeronautical Property. SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to rule and invite public comment for a change in airport property from aeronautical use to non-aeronautical use at the Williamsport Regional Airport, Williamsport, Pennsylvania. DATES: Comments must be received on or before June 14, 2010. ADDRESSES: Comments on this application may be mailed or delivered to the following address: Thomas J. Hart, Executive Director, Williamsport Municipal Airport Authority, Williamsport Regional Airport, 700 Airport Road, Montoursville, PA 17754; and at the FAA Harrisburg Airports District Office: Lori K. Pagnanelli, Manager, Harrisburg Airports District Office, 3905 Hartzdale Dr., Suite 508, Camp Hill, PA 17011. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rick Harner, Program Manager Harrisburg Airports District Office location listed above. The request for the change of use may be reviewed in person at this same location. The FAA proposes to rule and invite public comment for a change in airport SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:56 May 12, 2010 Jkt 220001 property from aeronautical use to nonaeronautical use at the Williamsport Regional Airport, Williamsport, Pennsylvania. On April 16, 2010, the FAA determined that the request to change airport property from aeronautical use to non-aeronautical use at the Williamsport Regional Airport, submitted by the Williamsport Municipal Airport Authority (Authority) met the procedural requirements. The following is a brief overview of the request: The Williamsport Regional Airport Authority (Authority) requests the change of real property totaling 24.37 acres, of aeronautical airport property to non-aeronautical property. The property is located on the northwest corner of the airport property. The purpose of this change in use is to allow the Authority to lease the subject land that does not serve any aeronautical purpose at the airport to the Sooner Pipe Company, LLC (Sooner). Sooner will use the subject property for pipe delivery, threading, storage and shipping to sites in the northeastern United States. The proposed use of the subject property is compatible with the airport operations. There are no impacts to the Airport and the land is not needed for aeronautical development as shown on the Airport Layout Plan. The Authority will collect fair market value lease rates for the subject property. Any proceeds from the lease of property are to be used for the capital and operating costs of the airport. Any person may inspect the request by appointment at the FAA office address listed above. Interested persons are invited to comment on the proposed release from obligations. All comments will be considered by the FAA to the extent practicable. Issued in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, April 27, 2010. Lori K. Pagnanelli, Manager, Harrisburg Airports District Office. [FR Doc. 2010–11509 Filed 5–12–10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Railroad Administration Solicitation of Applications and Notice of Funding Availability for the FRA Railroad System Issues Research and Development Program AGENCY: Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of funding availability; solicitation for applications. PO 00000 Frm 00195 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 SUMMARY: Under this Notice, the FRA is soliciting applications from interested and responsible parties for two grants: (1) To conduct a Locomotive Biofuel Study, and (2) to conduct a Study of the Use of Bio-based Technologies (Lubricants) that can be used in locomotives, rolling stock and other rail equipment. DATES: FRA will accept applications for these grant opportunities until June 7, 2010. ADDRESSES: Applications must be submitted electronically to https:// www.grants.gov (‘‘Grants.gov’’). Grants.gov allows organizations electronically to find and apply for competitive grant opportunities from all Federal grant-making agencies. Any entity wishing to submit an application pursuant to this notice should immediately initiate the process of registering with Grants.gov at https:// www.grants.gov. For application materials that an applicant is unable to submit via Grants.gov, applicants may submit an original and two (2) copies to the Federal Railroad Administration at the following address: Federal Railroad Administration, Attention: Melissa Shurland, Office of Research and Development, Mail Stop 20, Room W36–429, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. Due to delays caused by enhanced screening of mail delivered via the U.S. Postal Service, applicants are encouraged to use other means to assure timely receipt of materials. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Melissa Shurland, Office of Research and Development, Federal Railroad Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590; Phone: (202) 493–1316 or Jennifer Capps, Grants Officer, Office of Acquisition and Grants Services (RAD–50), Federal Railroad Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590; Phone: (202) 493–0112. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title IV, Section 404 of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act, 2008 (Division B of Pub. L. 110–432) authorized the FRA, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to conduct a ‘‘Locomotive Biofuel Study.’’ This study will focus on determining the extent to which freight railroads, Amtrak, and other passenger rail operators could use biofuel blends to power locomotives and other vehicles that can operate on diesel fuel, as appropriate. Additionally, Section 405 of the Passenger Rail E:\FR\FM\13MYN1.SGM 13MYN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 92 (Thursday, May 13, 2010)]
[Notices]
[Pages 27109-27112]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-11474]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Transit Administration


FY 2010 Discretionary Funding Opportunity: Paul S. Sarbanes 
Transit in Parks Program

AGENCY: Federal Transit Administration (FTA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of Availability: Solicitation of Project Proposals.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announces the 
availability of approximately $24.5 million in discretionary Fiscal 
Year (FY) 2010 Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program (Transit in 
Parks Program) funds. This notice solicits proposals to compete for FY 
2010 funds under the program, which was established by Section 3021 of 
the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient, Transportation Equity Act: 
A Legacy For Users (SAFETEA-LU), as amended (49 U.S.C. 5320). The 
program is administered by FTA in partnership with U.S. Department of 
Interior (DOI) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service.
    The program funds capital and planning expenses for alternative 
transportation systems such as buses and trams in federally-managed 
parks and public lands. Federal land management agencies, as well as 
State, tribal and local governments acting with the consent of a 
Federal land management agency are eligible to apply. DOI, after 
consultation with and in cooperation with FTA, will determine the final 
selection and funding of projects. Geographic diversity will be 
considered when allocating funds. This announcement is available on the 
FTA Web site at: https://www.fta.dot.gov. FTA will announce final 
selections on the Web site and in the Federal Register. A synopsis of 
this funding opportunity will be posted in the FIND module of the 
government-wide electronic grants Web site at https://www.grants.gov.

DATES: Complete proposals must be received by 12 midnight EST on June 
28, 2010.

ADDRESSES: Project proposals must be submitted electronically through 
the GRANTS.GOV Web site and applicants must be properly registered. 
Anyone intending to apply electronically through GRANTS.GOV should 
initiate the process of registering on the GRANTS.GOV site immediately 
to ensure completion of registration before the deadline for 
submission. GRANTS.GOV applicants should receive two confirmation e-
mails. The first will confirm that the application was received and a 
subsequent e-mail will be sent within 24-48 hours indicating whether 
the application was validated or rejected by the system. If interested 
parties experience difficulties at any point during the registration or 
application process, please call the GRANTS.GOV Customer Support 
Hotline at 1-800-518-4726, Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST. The 
required electronic project proposal template as well as guidance on 
completing a proposal template can also be found on GRANTS.GOV and on 
the program Web site at https://www.fta.dot.gov/funding/grants/grants_financing_6106.html.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Contact the appropriate FTA Regional 
Administrator (Appendix A) for proposal-specific information and issues 
or the appropriate land management agency (Appendix B) for the Paul S. 
Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program. For general program information, 
contact Kimberly Sledge, Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program, 
(202) 366-2053, Kimberly.Sledge@dot.gov. A TDD is available at 1-800-
877-8339 (TDD/FIRS).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Contents

I. Overview
II. Program Purpose
III. Program Information
    1. Eligible Applicants
    2. Eligible Projects
    3. Cost Sharing and Matching
    4. Proposal Content
    5. Evaluation Criteria
IV. Technical Assistance and Other Program Information
Appendix A--FTA Regional Offices
Appendix B--Land Management Agency Contacts

I. Overview

    Section 3021 of SAFETEA-LU, as amended, established the Paul S. 
Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program (Transit in Parks Program) (49 U.S.C. 
5320). The program is administered by FTA in partnership with DOI and 
the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service.
    Congestion in and around parks and public lands causes traffic 
delays, noise, and air pollution that substantially detract from the 
visitor's experience and the protection of natural resources. In August 
2001, the U.S. Department of Transportation and DOI published a 
comprehensive study of alternative transportation needs in national 
parks and related Federal lands. The study identified significant 
alternative transportation needs at sites managed by the National Park 
Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service. Additionally, a supplement to this report identified Forest 
Service sites that would benefit from such services.

II. Program Purpose

    The purpose of the program is to enhance the protection of national 
parks and Federal lands, and increase the enjoyment of visitors' 
experience by conserving natural, historical, and cultural resources; 
reducing congestion and pollution; improving visitor mobility and 
accessibility; enhancing the visitor experience; and ensuring access to 
all, including persons with disabilities.

III. Program Information

1. Eligible Applicants

    Eligible applicants are Federal land management agencies that 
manage an eligible area, including but not limited to the National Park 
Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, 
the Forest Service, and the Bureau of Reclamation; and State, tribal 
and local governments with jurisdiction over land in the vicinity of an 
eligible area, acting with the consent of a Federal land management 
agency, alone or in partnership with a Federal land management agency 
or other governmental or non-governmental participant. Note: If the 
applicant is a State, tribal, or local government, a letter from the 
affected unit(s) of the Federal land management agency or agencies 
expressing support for the project should be submitted with the project 
proposal. Proposals with support letters from the unit of the Federal 
land management agency or agencies will be weighted more favorably by 
FTA, DOI, and the Forest Service in its evaluation.

2. Eligible Projects

    SAFETEA-LU defines alternative transportation as ``transportation 
by bus, rail, or any other publicly or privately owned conveyance that 
provides to the public general or special service on a regular basis, 
including sightseeing service. This also includes a non-motorized 
transportation system (including the provision of facilities for 
pedestrians, bicycles, and non-motorized watercraft).''
    The program funds capital and planning expenses for alternative 
transportation systems such as buses and trams in federally-managed 
parks

[[Page 27110]]

and public lands. A qualified planning or capital project is within the 
vicinity of a federally-owned or managed park, refuge, or recreational 
area that is open to the general public and meets the goals of the 
program. Operating expenses are not eligible under the program. A 
project proposal may include up to 15 percent for project 
administration, contingency, and oversight. As specified in 49 U.S.C. 
5320(b)(5), the following types of projects are eligible:
a. Planning
    Activities to comply with metropolitan and statewide planning 
provisions (49 U.S.C. 5320(b)(5)(A) referencing 49 U.S.C. 5303, 5304, 
5305). Activities include planning studies for an alternative 
transportation system including evaluation of no-build and all other 
reasonable alternatives, traffic studies, visitor utilization studies, 
transportation analysis, feasibility studies, and environmental 
studies.
b. Capital
    Eligible capital projects include all aspects of ``acquiring, 
constructing, supervising, or inspecting equipment or a facility for 
use in public transportation, expenses incidental to the acquisition or 
construction (including designing, engineering, location surveying, 
mapping, and acquiring rights-of-way), payments for the capital 
portions of rail trackage rights agreements, transit-related 
intelligent transportation systems, relocation assistance, acquiring 
replacement housing sites, and acquiring, constructing, relocating, and 
rehabilitating replacement housing.''
    Capital projects may include those projects operated by an outside 
entity, such as a public transportation agency, state or local 
government, private company engaged in public transportation, or 
private non-profit organization. Projects may also include the 
deployment/commercialization of alternative transportation vehicles 
that introduce innovative technologies or methods.
    The capital cost of leasing vehicles is an eligible expense under 
the program. For vehicle acquisition projects, sponsors should compare 
the cost-effectiveness of leasing versus purchasing vehicles. Leasing 
may be particularly cost effective in circumstances in which transit 
service is only needed during a peak visitation period that lasts only 
a few months. In these cases, leasing a vehicle for a few months during 
the year may be less expensive than purchasing a vehicle only used for 
a few months during the year. An award can cover the capital cost of 
leasing vehicles but not the cost of operations, such as fuel or 
driver's salary.
    Project sponsors should also compare the cost effectiveness of 
providing service versus contracting for service. The capital portion 
of contracted service is an eligible capital expense under the program. 
For example, if a public land agency contracts with a private bus 
company to provide shuttle service with privately owned buses, the 
portion of the contract that covers the capital expense of the buses is 
an eligible expense under the Transit in Parks Program. Operating 
expenses are not eligible under the program. Project sponsors will be 
asked to compare the cost-effectiveness of their preferred option to 
other alternatives in the financial sustainability portion of the 
proposal.
    The SAFETEA-LU legislation includes language allowing eligibility 
of ``fixed guideway'' projects. These are defined as those 
transportation projects that run on a dedicated right of way, like a 
light rail, trolley, bus rapid transit, or any type of ferry system. 
For these types of projects, eligible projects can include development 
of a new fixed guideway project; rehabilitation or modernization of 
existing fixed guideway systems; and expansion of existing systems. For 
bus or shuttle projects, eligible projects can include purchase of 
buses and related equipment; replacement of buses and related 
equipment; rehabilitation of buses and related equipment; construction 
of bus-related facilities such as bus shelters; and purchase of rolling 
stock that incorporates clean fuel technology or the replacement of 
buses of a type in use on August 10, 2005, with clean fuel vehicles.
    The Transit in Parks Program specifically includes these other 
eligible capital projects:
    (1) The capital costs of coordinating Federal land management 
agency public transportation systems with other public transportation 
systems.
    (2) Non-motorized transportation systems (including the provision 
of facilities for pedestrians, bicycles and non-motorized watercraft).
    (3) Water-borne access systems within or in the vicinity of an 
eligible area as appropriate and consistent with 49 U.S.C. 5320.
    (4) Any other alternative transportation project that enhances the 
environment; prevents or mitigates an adverse impact on a natural 
resource; improves Federal land management agency resource management; 
improves visitor mobility and accessibility and the visitor experience; 
reduces congestion and pollution (including noise pollution and visual 
pollution); or conserves a natural, historical, or cultural resource 
(excluding rehabilitation or restoration of a non-transportation 
facility).
    In order to be considered for funding a project must consist of one 
or more of the eligible activities listed above, meet the definition of 
alternative transportation, and contribute to the goals of the program.

3. Financial Limitations and Cost Sharing

    No one project may receive more than 25 percent of the available 
funds. Additionally, projects selected for funding under the Paul S. 
Sarbanes Transit in the Parks Program can be funded at up to 100 
percent Federal share.

4. Proposal Content

    The required electronic project proposal template as well as 
guidance on completing a proposal template can be found on GRANTS.GOV 
and on the program Web site at https://www.fta.dot.gov/funding/grants/grants_financing_6106.html. Proposals should not exceed 10 pages 
(excluding the standard form 424) and use 12 pt. font.

5. Evaluation Criteria

    Proposed planning projects will be evaluated based on the following 
criteria:
a. Demonstration of Need
    (1) Visitor mobility and experience (current or anticipated 
problem); and
    (2) Environmental (current or anticipated problem).
b. Methodology for Assessing Visitor Mobility and Experience Benefits 
of Project
    (1) Reduced traffic congestion;
    (2) Enhanced visitor mobility, accessibility, and safety; and
    (3) Improved visitor education, recreation, and health benefits.
c. Methodology for Assessing Environmental Benefits of Project
    (1) Protection of sensitive natural, cultural, and historic 
resources; and
    (2) Reduced pollution (air, noise, visual).
d. Methodology for Assessing Financial and Operational Efficiency 
Sustainability of Alternatives
    (1) Effectiveness in meeting management goals;
    (2) Realistic financial plan;

[[Page 27111]]

    (3) Cost effectiveness; and
    (4) Partnering, funding from other sources, and/or innovative 
financing.
    Proposed capital projects will be evaluated based on the following 
criteria:
a. Demonstration of Need
    (1) Visitor mobility and experience (current or anticipated 
problem); and
    (2) Environmental (current or anticipated problem).
b. Visitor Mobility and Experience Benefits of Project
    (1) Reduced traffic congestion;
    (2) Enhanced visitor mobility, accessibility, and safety; and
    (3) Improved visitor education, recreation, and health benefits.
c. Environmental Benefits of Project
    (1) Protection of sensitive natural, cultural, and historic 
resources; and
    (2) Reduced pollution (air, noise, visual).
d. Financial Sustainability and Operational Efficiency
    (1) Effectiveness in meeting management goals;
    (2) Realistic financial plan;
    (3) Cost effectiveness; and
    (4) Partnering, funding from other sources, and/or innovative 
financing.
    A special note on non-motorized transportation systems: While non-
motorized systems, such as trails, are eligible under the program, not 
all non-motorized systems will meet the goals of the program needed to 
be considered for funding. Like motorized systems, in order to be 
considered for funding, non-motorized systems must reduce or mitigate 
the number of auto trips by providing an alternative to travel by 
private auto. In addition, non-motorized systems must provide a high 
degree of connectivity within a transportation system. Finally, they 
should improve safety for motorized and non-motorized transportation 
system users.

IV. Technical Assistance and other Program Information

    Complete proposals must be submitted via GRANTS.GOV by June 28, 
2010. Frequently asked questions and other program information are 
available at https://www.fta.dot.gov/atppl. Projects selected for 
funding will be required to report quarterly and submit performance 
data to the appropriate agency. Detailed information on reporting will 
be included in the Federal Register notice announcing projects selected 
for funding. Technical assistance regarding the program is available by 
contacting Kimberly Sledge, Federal Transit Administration, (202) 366-
2053, kimberly.sledge@dot.gov or the appropriate Federal land 
management agency contact (see Appendix B).

    Issued in Washington, DC, May 7, 2010.
Peter Rogoff,
Administrator.

Appendix A

                  FTA Regional and Metropolitan Offices
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Richard H. Doyle, Regional               Robert C. Patrick, Regional
 Administrator, Region 1--Boston,         Administrator, Region 6--Ft.
 Kendall Square, 55 Broadway, Suite       Worth, 819 Taylor Street, Room
 920, Cambridge, MA 02142-1093, Tel.      8A36, Ft. Worth, TX 76102,
 617-494-2055.                            Tel. 817-978-0550.
States served: Connecticut, Maine,       States served: Arkansas,
 Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode      Louisiana, Oklahoma, New
 Island, and Vermont.                     Mexico and Texas.
Brigid Hynes-Cherin, Regional            Mokhtee Ahmad, Regional
 Administrator, Region 2--New York, One   Administrator, Region 7--
 Bowling Green, Room 429, New York, NY    Kansas City, MO, 901 Locust
 10004-1415, Tel. 212-668-2170.           Street, Room 404, Kansas City,
                                          MO 64106, Tel. 816-329-3920.
States served: New Jersey, New York.     States served: Iowa, Kansas,
                                          Missouri, and Nebraska.
New York Metropolitan Office, Region 2--
 New York, One Bowling Green, Room 428,
 New York, NY 10004-1415, Tel. 212-668-
 2202.
Letitia Thompson, Regional               Terry Rosapep, Regional
 Administrator, Region 3--Philadelphia,   Administrator, Region 8-
 1760 Market Street, Suite 500,           Denver, 12300 West Dakota
 Philadelphia, PA 19103-4124, Tel. 215-   Ave., Suite 310, Lakewood, CO
 656-7100.                                80228-2583, Tel. 720-963-3300.
States served: Delaware, Maryland,       States served: Colorado,
 Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia,   Montana, North Dakota, South
 and District of Columbia.                Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.
Philadelphia Metropolitan Office,
 Region 3--Philadelphia, 1760 Market
 Street, Suite 500, Philadelphia, PA
 19103-4124, Tel. 215-656-7070.
Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Office,
 1990 K Street, NW., Room 510,
 Washington, DC 20006, Tel. 202-219-
 3562.
Yvette Taylor, Regional Administrator,   Leslie T. Rogers, Regional
 Region 4--Atlanta, 230 Peachtree         Administrator, Region 9--San
 Street, NW,. Suite 800, Atlanta, GA      Francisco, 201 Mission Street,
 30303, Tel. 404-865-5600.                Room 1650, San Francisco, CA
                                          94105-1926, Tel. 415-744-3133.
States served: Alabama, Florida,         States served: American Samoa,
 Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North    Arizona, California, Guam,
 Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina,   Hawaii, Nevada, and the
 Tennessee, and Virgin Islands.           Northern Mariana Islands.
                                         Los Angeles Metropolitan
                                          Office, Region 9--Los Angeles,
                                          888 S. Figueroa Street, Suite
                                          1850, Los Angeles, CA 90017-
                                          1850, Tel. 213-202-3952.
Marisol Simon, Regional Administrator,   Rick Krochalis, Regional
 Region 5--Chicago, 200 West Adams        Administrator, Region 10--
 Street, Suite 320, Chicago, IL 60606,    Seattle, Jackson Federal
 Tel. 312-353-2789.                       Building, 915 Second Avenue,
                                          Suite 3142, Seattle, WA 98174-
                                          1002, Tel. 206-220-7954.
States served: Illinois, Indiana,        States served: Alaska, Idaho,
 Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and           Oregon, and Washington.
 Wisconsin.
Chicago Metropolitan Office, Region 5--
 Chicago, 200 West Adams Street, Suite
 320, Chicago, IL 60606, Tel. 312-353-
 2789.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 27112]]

Appendix B

Federal Land Management Agencies Transit in Parks Program Contacts

 National Park Service: Mark H. Hartsoe, Mark_H_Hartsoe@nps.gov; telephone: 202-513-7025, fax: 202-371-6675, mail: 
1849 C Street, NW., (MS2420); Washington, DC 20240-0001
 Fish and Wildlife Service: Nathan Caldwell, Nathan_Caldwell@fws.gov, telephone: 703-358-2205, fax: 703-358-2517, mail: 
4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Room 634, Arlington, VA 22203
 Forest Service: Floyd Thompson, Fthompson02@fs.fed.us, 
telephone: 202-205-1423, mail: 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., 
Washington, DC 20250-1101
 Bureau of Land Management: Victor F. Montoya, Victor_Montoya@blm.gov, telephone: 202-912-7041, mail: 1620 L Street, WO-
854, Washington, DC 20036

[FR Doc. 2010-11474 Filed 5-12-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-57-P
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