State Tech awarded funding for sidewalks near campus thanks to “TAP” or the Transportation Alternatives Program

Published on November 7, 2023

State Tech is pleased to announce funding from the Transportation Alternative Program also known as “TAP.”

According to MoDOT’s website…

The Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) is federally funded through the Infrastructure
Investment and Jobs Act. The goal of the program is to expand transportation choices and
enhance the transportation experience through categories of activities related to the surface
transportation system. The TAP focuses on non-motorized transportation projects with an
emphasis on bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

 This funding will build sidewalks from campus to apartment complexes to the East and to Casper’s 66 to the West. In addition, the sidewalk will also go to the LinnR2 schools to the South. These sidewalks will connect approximately 1,000 students directly to campus.

Construction is anticipated to occur summer of 2024 in conjunction with adding turn lanes and stoplights at CC and the State Tech main entrance.  Plans for an East and West Entrance are also being made to help alleviate traffic congestion.  MoDOT has indicated support for a new East entrance across from the Linn First Church.  This is a 50/50 cost share project that will cost the college approximately $400,000.

“When we evaluated MoDOT’s proposal for the new entrance the lack of sidewalks jumped out at us.  Our project was ranked first in our region likely because of the density of students living near campus.  We were surprised just how many students live within 3000’ of the campus.  This number will increase as the old retirement home gets converted to student housing.  We are please partner with MoDOT for the safety of our students and community,” said President Dr. Shawn Strong.

The total project will cost $673.749. The “TAP” funding will spend $500,000, State Tech will cover the rest of the project.

 For additional information, please contact Brandon McElwain at 573-897-5351.