Illinois Competitive Freight Program
ForecastedInternal — Illinois Department of Transportation only
The Illinois Competitive Freight Program funds IDOT-led research and projects to modernize freight infrastructure, improve safety, and boost efficiency across Illinois’ transportation network.
Funder: Illinois Department of Transportation
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: ~$100M total ($50M/year FY27–FY28); max award per project up to $50M federal funds; intermodal projects capped at ~$15M/year.
Summary: Supports projects to modernize and enhance Illinois' freight system for improved safety, efficiency, reliability, and economic growth.
Key Information: Only IDOT (state agency) projects are eligible; external applicants are not accepted.
Description
The Illinois Competitive Freight Program is a grant initiative administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to advance a safe, efficient, reliable, resilient, and sustainable intermodal freight network in Illinois. The program is a key mechanism for implementing the Illinois State Freight Plan, focusing on strategic investments that support economic growth, improve system reliability, and enhance quality of life and equity for residents. Eligible projects must address freight system needs such as safety improvements, operational enhancements, intermodal connectivity, and system modernization, with an emphasis on both highway and intermodal freight infrastructure.
