When the stimulus bill passed it included a provision for $1.5 billion in discretionary, competitive transportation grants. For the past two and a half months, transportation agencies around the country have been salivating at the thought of getting their hands on some of the dough. Ideas have come forward for a regional BRT system and a national bike-sharing program, to mention just two of many. But while there have been no shortage of ideas floated, the actual criteria for grant applications did not come out until today. Now that it’s out, agencies hoping for grants can begin serious work on applications.

Submissions are due by September 15, 2009, and all the money will be awarded no later than February 17, 2010.