Transportation Enhancement Program

Overview

The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 was the beginning of a new era in federal transportation legislation. With this act, Congress introduced the Transportation Enhancement Program, which required each state to set aside 10 percent of its Surface Transportation Program funds for transportation enhancement projects.

This program offered broad opportunities and federal funding for creative projects that integrated transportation into our communities and environment. The legislation designated 12 activities meant to improve non-motorized transportation, enhance the public’s traveling experience, revitalize communities, and improve the quality of life.

These federal funds cannot be used for traditional highway projects or roadway improvements. They are for activities that go above and beyond common transportation practice.

This program continued with enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) in 1998 and the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) in 2005.

SAFETEA-LU builds on the initiatives established by ISTEA and TEA-21. This legislation stresses mobility and protection of the environment, community preservation, sustainability and livability. Transportation Enhancement projects provide opportunities to improve the transportation experience in local communities.