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2026 Competitive Freight Program
The 2026 Illinois Competitive Freight Program seeks to improve freight efficiency and mobility throughout Illinois by advancing the vision and goals of the Illinois State Freight Plan. In alignment with this vision, the 2026 Illinois Competitive Freight Program seeks to advance a safe, efficient, reliable, resilient, and sustainable intermodal freight system that supports Illinois' competitive position as a global hub that continues to build the economy and enhance equity and quality of life for Illinois residents.
- Program Overview
o Program Name – 2026 Competitive Freight Program
o Application Opening – March 1, 2026
o Application Closing – April 17, 2026
o Eligible Applicants – Internal Call for Illinois Department of Transportation Projects Only – NO EXTERNAL PROJECTS
o Eligible Activities – Phase 1 and Phase 3
o Funding – Total Program - $100 Million - $50 million in FY27 and $50 million in FY28
· Grant Application Cap - $50 Million of Federal Funds - Not include matching amounts.
· Matching Requirement – Match funds will be Standard 80/20 or 90/10 for Interstates.
- Application
o https://forms.office.com/g/CmUEwygP7d
- Application Support Documents and Resources
- Questions
DOT.ILFreightPlanning@illinois.gov
2023 Competitive Freight Program
The 2023 Illinois Competitive Freight Program seeks to improve freight efficiency and mobility throughout Illinois by advancing the vision and goals of the 2023 Illinois State Freight Plan. In alignment with this vision, the 2023 Illinois Competitive Freight Program seeks to advance a safe, efficient, reliable, resilient, and sustainable intermodal freight system that supports Illinois’ competitive position as a global hub that continues to build the economy and enhance equity and quality of life for Illinois residents.
2018 Competitive Freight Program
The 2018 Illinois Competitive Freight Program seeks to improve freight mobility throughout Illinois by implementing the goals of the 2017 Illinois State Freight Plan to improve safety, efficiency, and to grow the economy. This program focuses on achieving outcomes such as reducing bottlenecks, improving freight related safety, improving Intermodal accessibility, and technology deployment.
The Competitive Freight Program Awards Announcement was officially released by the Illinois Department of Transportation in May of 2018.
2018 Awards List