Program Requirements

ICE program funds are for operating or capital grants that advance the goals and objectives of the RTA's Strategic Plan.

The following entities are eligible to apply and receive funding under the ICE program:

• Service boards: Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra and Pace
• Transportation agencies that provide public transportation services
• Local government agencies

The RTA will select cost-effective (through a competitive selection process) capital and operating projects that promote innovation, coordination and enhancement of the regional public transportation system. The potential for sustainability and self-sufficiency beyond the grant period will be a major determining factor for operating projects. Selected projects will also support the RTA's Regional Transit Coordination Program Goal of providing customers with a seamless regional transit system that most effectively takes people where they need to go by transit.

Applicants may not apply to the ICE program and JARC/New Freedom programs for the same project.

Engineering, design, and capital projects must be initiated within one year of grant execution. Initiated means all contractual obligations for the project are executed within six months of the ICE grant agreement between the RTA and the applicant. A local match is required for all projects. Local match requirements are 20% for capital projects and 50% for operating projects. There is a two-year limit for operating funding through the ICE program.

Any grantee that receives ICE funding for operations must:

• Implement projects within one year of receipt of funding, and
• Within two years of utilizing ICE funds, determine whether it is desirable to continue the project. Upon such a determination, grantee must either incorporate the project into the applicant's own annual operating budget and capital program or discontinue the project.