The Iowa Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for funding though the Iowa Living Roadway Trust Fund (LRTF). Cities, counties and organizations with a statewide focus may apply for the funds designed to enhance vegetation on Iowa’s roadsides.

Applications for fiscal year 2020 funding are due by 4 p.m. June 1, 2019. The LRTF's funding guidelines and requirements are updated for each fiscal year’s grants and detail what grants can be written for and the specific match requirements for each type.

These projects serve to educate the public about the need to ensure that roadside vegetation is preserved, planted, and maintained, which adds to the safety, ecological integration and visual interest of Iowa’s roads.

Established by the Iowa Legislature in 1988 under Iowa Code 314.21, the LRTF is administered by the Iowa DOT with funding sources that include the Resource Enhancement and Protection Fund, the Road Use Tax Fund, and utility access fees. Since 1990, the LRTF has funded more than $17 million for research and demonstration projects, vegetation inventories, education and training programs, gateway landscaping, snow and erosion control, and roadside enhancement and maintenance.

Please visit the Iowa Living Roadway Trust Fund website at https://iowadot.gov/lrtf/Grants to find out more and contact staff with questions regarding the completion of the application materials or grant eligibility.