Better Connections Program
The Better Connections Program from the Vermont Agency of Transportation funds research-driven planning to enhance transportation, community development, and water quality in Vermont municipalities.
Funder: Vermont Agency of Transportation
Due Dates: October 9, 2026 (Pre-Application Form) | October 30, 2026 (Application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $200,000 per award; typically two awards per cycle; 10% local cash match required; up to $30,000 additional Clean Water funds available per community (no match required).
Summary: Supports Vermont municipalities (outside Chittenden County) in comprehensive planning for transportation, community development, and water quality improvements.
Key Information: Pre-application is mandatory; only municipalities with a confirmed municipal plan are eligible.
Description
The Better Connections Program, administered by the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans), provides planning grants and technical assistance to Vermont municipalities (excluding Chittenden County) to strengthen economic vitality, build resilience, and expand transportation options in community centers. The program encourages comprehensive master planning projects that focus on multi-modal transportation, land use, housing, economic development, and water quality improvements. Awardees receive support throughout the grant period, including help with prioritizing goals, developing actionable plans, and connecting with partners for implementation.
Eligible projects may address improved connectivity, active transportation, complete streets, access management, traffic calming, parking, wayfinding, building rehabilitation, site redevelopment, housing, and stormwater management. The program is a collaboration between VTrans, the Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD), and the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR).
