674564 - RISE Local Development September 2026 Round

The Iowa Department of Transportation is offering the RISE (Revitalize Iowa’s Sound Economy) Local Development grant for city and county governments to fund roadway‑related projects that support “value‑adding” economic development such as industrial, manufacturing, warehousing, and professional‑office facilities. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but must be received by the semi‑annual deadline of September 1, 2026 to be considered in the current review cycle. The grant covers a broad set of eligible activities—including new road construction, bridge and culvert work, intersection improvements, transit shelters, bike/pedestrian facilities, right‑of‑way acquisition, design‑engineering, storm‑drainage, utility relocation, permits, and railroad modifications—while routine maintenance, pre‑funding costs (except limited advance right‑of‑way), and non‑integral traffic‑signal or lighting items are excluded. Funding decisions are based on five evaluation factors: development potential, economic impact, local commitment, transportation need, and area economic need. Successful applicants must sign the application (mayor or board chair) and may need to coordinate with the DOT district office for ROW permits and traffic‑impact studies if the project involves primary roads.