FAQ
How often and when does the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) meet?
The CTB typically meets the third Wednesday of each month.
How long does it take for a project to be approved?
An initial request from a local governing body for EDA program funding typically takes four to six months to attain approval by the CTB. Meeting the contingencies of the CTB allocation approval often requires another two or more months. Steps include preparing and approving the local-state agreement, conducting environmental and cultural resources reviews, advertising for bids, awarding a contract, and constructing the road. Initiating the State Environmental Review Process (SERP), if applicable, and coordinating with regulatory agencies may take at least 60 days; however, the time necessary to complete environmental studies that may be required by federal and state laws and obtaining necessary permits can vary significantly, depending on the outcome of initial review.
A number of different local and state government officials and bodies will review each request, some of which, including the CTB, meet once each month.
What types of establishments are eligible for EDA funds?
“Qualifying Establishments” include manufacturing, processing, research and development facilities, distribution centers, regional service centers, corporate headquarters, government installations or similar facilities, or other qualifying establishments that also meet basic employer criteria as determined by VEDP.
How much funding is available for an EDA project?
Subject to available funding, the maximum unmatched allocation to a locality within any one fiscal year is $500,000; allocations may be used for one or more projects. Further, the total amount available statewide under this program is limited by statute. The maximum allocation to any regular project is limited to the lesser of either the reasonable cost of the project or 20% of the qualifying investment made by the qualifying establishment.
What if the maximum allocation is not enough?
When the cost of an individual access project exceeds $500,000, the locality may request up to $150,000 in supplemental funds, which must be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis by a contribution from the general fund of the county, city, or town. Such supplemental state funding shall be limited to 20% of the qualifying investment above $2.5 million, up to $3.25 million. Project costs in excess of the allocation will be the locality’s responsibility.
When can we expect these funds to be spent on a project?
The expenditure of EDA funds for the project will be approved by VDOT only after all contingencies of the CTB’s resolution have been met.
A locally administered project must be authorized, with funding approved for expenditure, before VDOT reimburses a locality for eligible costs attributed to project construction. Appropriate documentation of costs and billing information, such as contractor’s payment application and verification of payment, must be provided by the locality.
What are eligible project costs?
“Project Cost” means the allowable costs for which EDA program funds may be utilized. This includes reasonable costs of preliminary engineering and surveying associated specifically with project design and actual construction cost of a roadway built to VDOT standards (or developed in accordance with American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standards for locality maintained roads) for accommodating the projected traffic.
Any pedestrian or bicycle facility deemed necessary for the project is eligible for funding. Excluded are items such as environmental studies and permits, obtaining right-of-way and relocation of utilities, and traffic impact studies. Optional roadway features other than those determined to be required to meet appropriate design standards, such as roadway lighting or landscaping, may be included in a project provided that the costs of these features are borne by others. Costs incurred (e.g., paid items or those for which a contract or purchase order has been executed) prior to allocation by the CTB are not reimbursable.
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