The Illinois Department of Transportation has issued a circular letter requesting candidate projects for the FY2015 Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) to be initiated in FY 2015.  HSIP is a core federal funding program to achieve a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads.  HSIP is an important resource in implementing the Illinois Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP).  Among other emphasis areas, the SHSP targets "vulnerable users," which includes pedestrians and bicyclists.  For FY 2015, the anticipated HSIP funding level for the local highway system is approximately $13.3 million for HSIP and will be available in July 2014.

More information on HSIP, including guidance on the application process, can be found at http://idot.illinois.gov/transportation-system/local-transportation-partners/county-engineers-and-local-public-agencies/funding-opportunities/highway-safety-improvement-program  (click on the "HSIP Policy: Safety 1-06" link).  In District 1, questions should be directed to Christopher Holt, Local Roads Engineer at 847-705-4201, chris.holt@illinois.gov.  The deadline for application is April 18, 2014.