Fiscal Year 2026 Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program

The Fiscal Year 2026 Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program (FHWA-WCPP-26-002), administered by the Federal Highway Administration under the Department of Transportation, provides approximately 80 million dollars in cost-reimbursable grants to eligible entities. The program's primary objective is to enhance public safety by reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions and improving habitat connectivity for aquatic and terrestrial species. Applications open on September 30, 2026, and must be submitted by November 16, 2026. The anticipated period of performance for awarded projects ranges from one to four years, with FY 2026 funds requiring obligation by September 30, 2029. Recipients are generally required to provide a 20 percent non-Federal cost share and must comply with Buy America and Build America, Buy America requirements. The evaluation process involves a multi-stage review focusing on merit criteria, specifically the reduction of collisions and improvement of habitat connectivity, followed by a project readiness assessment covering technical feasibility, financial completeness, and permitting risk. Awardees must establish two to four performance measures and provide semi-annual progress and financial reports, with monitoring continuing for several years post-construction. Mandatory application components include the WCPP Application Template, specific Standard Forms based on project type, and proof of active SAM.gov registration.