Since the inception of the Connecting Communities Planning Grant Program in 2011:

Grants Awarded

AMATS Funded Projects

$627,800

$17,695,362

A Guide to Integrating Land Use and Transportation

Connecting Communities utilizes a regional planning process to explore strategies to increase transportation choices and accessibility, help communities make collaborative, informed decisions to coordinate development, reduce environmental impacts and improve regional connectivity. The intent of this initiative is to create more vibrant livable communities though coordinating resources, partners and stakeholders to integrate transportation and land use planning and decisions in the greater Akron area. It looks at how transportation funding, project selection and planning can better complement land use planning that encourages investment and revitalization of established neighborhoods and regional collaboration.

Executive Summary

For additional information or questions contact Heather Reidl at 330-375-2436  ext. 4434 or email her at hreidl@akronohio.gov.


Connecting Communities Planning Grant

Planning Grant Applications should further the following Connecting Communities principles:

  • Increase alternative transportation options to connect people and places
  • Promote Complete Street principles to create vibrant and safe places for all users
  • Leverage transportation projects to develop places which support alternative transportation and complete streets through land use and design

FY 2026 Planning Grants

AMATS Connecting Communities Planning Grant applications are now available! AMATS has made $100,000 available for two planning grants up to $50,000 each. Applications are due March 20, 2026. Please note that legislation is required to move forward with any studies. See below for links to the application and the sample legislation. Please contact Heather Davis Reidl at 330-375-2436 ext. 4434 with any questions.

Notice of Funding Available

FY 2026 Application

Sample Legislation