FLAP Reauthorization Act Secures Ongoing Grants for Gateway Communities Near Federal Lands

Hook

On March 18, 2026, Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced the bipartisan FLAP Reauthorization Act—a pivotal move to secure continued federal funding for transportation infrastructure in communities neighboring America's public lands. With FLAP (Federal Lands Access Program) set to expire later this year, this proposed reauthorization aims to safeguard grants for roads, transit, and safety facilities that serve as lifelines for rural, tribal, and gateway communities across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Source

Context

Since its establishment in 2012, the Federal Lands Access Program has played a crucial role in supplementing state, local, and tribal funding for transportation projects that connect people, goods, and emergency services to and around public lands. Projects funded by FLAP include everything from asphalt resurfacing and signage to multi-use trails, crucial to both locals and the millions of annual visitors who recreate on federal lands. For example, investments like the improvement of Bend’s Haul Road Trail in Oregon have enhanced safe and sustainable access to the Deschutes National Forest, boosting tourism and regional economies.

The program’s authorization is set to expire soon, leaving countless rural and tribal communities uncertain about the future of their most significant transportation improvement grant stream. Unlike other major transportation funds, FLAP is uniquely focused on communities adjacent to federal lands—where local governments are often responsible for maintaining roads and transportation infrastructure that serve far-beyond-local needs, thanks to visitors and resource extraction.

Backed strongly by stakeholder groups such as the National Association of Counties (NACo), Oregon Association of Counties, and tribal representatives, the reauthorization bill is seen as a must-have pillar in the upcoming surface transportation negotiations in Congress. Without renewal, gateway communities could face delayed maintenance, lost economic opportunity, and reduced emergency service access.

Impact

For Counties, Cities, and Local Governments:

Counties that border national parks, forests, and monuments rely heavily on FLAP funds to repair roads, improve crossings, and enhance visitor and resident safety. The bill’s reauthorization will stabilize planning horizons and help local governments address deferred maintenance without depleting local budgets. Notably, counties in rural and recreational economies stand to benefit most, as the act specifically targets communities with limited tax bases but outsized infrastructure needs due to tourism traffic.

For Tribal Governments:

Tribal communities are often both geographically isolated and economically dependent on safe, reliable transport to, from, and through federal lands. FLAP helps tribes repair or upgrade routes—such as reservation roads and access trails—improving school transit, health care access, and tourism viability. Continued funding provides much-needed predictability and partnership with federal transportation agencies.

For Nonprofits and Economic Development Organizations:

Groups promoting outdoor access, youth engagement, or rural economic development have a direct interest in FLAP-funded projects. Safe, well-maintained infrastructure draws more visitors, supports local businesses (from guides to lodging), and protects the environment by channeling recreation appropriately.

Action

If you are a grant-seeker in a gateway community, tribe, or local government:

• Review the FLAP program page and resources at FHWA for updated eligibility and guidance.
• Map your project pipeline: Identify transportation infrastructure needs that improve access to or within federal lands. Past projects include road resurfacing, new crossings, accessible trails, and safety upgrades.
• Build coalitions now: Reach out to partner counties, tribal entities, tourism organizations, and land managers. Strong, multi-agency partnerships make competitive proposals.
• Stay tuned for NOFOs (Notices of Funding Opportunity) and potential pre-application webinars—should the act pass, weeks may matter as funding windows can open quickly.
• Communicate with state DOTs and regional planning organizations: Many FLAP projects are selected collaboratively, so early alignment is key.

Outlook

With bipartisan support and strong stakeholder momentum—plus zero noted opposition so far—the FLAP Reauthorization Act’s prospects look promising, especially as Congress negotiates the broader surface transportation package. Watch for movement in committee and floor calendars through late spring and summer. If the bill passes, expect a new technical assistance wave and funding opportunities to be released soon after.

Granted AI will continue to monitor developments and provide insights and tools to help you prepare a competitive FLAP application when the window opens.