FinalFY18NOFO.docx

Notice of Funding Opportunity Summary Information

Federal Agency Name:

U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA) Grants Management Office (GMO); MC-BG 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE West Building Washington, DC 20590

Funding Opportunity Title:

High Priority Program

Announcement Type:

Initial

Funding Opportunity Number:

FM-MHP-18-001

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number:

20.237

Key Dates:

Application Due Date – May 21, 2018 5:00pm EST

Point of Contact:

Rikita Jarrett, 202-366-4186, rikita.jarrett@dot.gov

Select Secondary Point of Contact

Please Note: The FMCSA will host a funding conference for the FY 2018 High Priority Grant on April 25, 2018 at 3:00 PM EST. This is conference is being provided as part of the Annual MCSAP Planning Meeting, and is also being simultaneously broadcasted via webinar.

To register for the webinar please follow this link and complete the registration directions: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2311405828194537731

SECTION A - PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

1) Overview.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s FMCSA announces the Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 High Priority (HP) Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to solicit applications from eligible entities to support the High Priority Program activities.

The Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act Pub. L. No. 114-94, §5101(2015) authorized the FY 2018 HP program funding, and 49 U.S.C. §§ 31102(l), 31104 (2015) and 49 C.F.R. part 350 govern the HP financial assistance program. In accordance with the provisions of the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (P.L. 115-56), only a portion of the entire FY 2018 funding is presently available at the FY 2017 appropriations level. However, the FMCSA anticipates that authorized funding for the entirety of FY 2018 will available at the time of award.

As the lead government agency responsible for the regulation and safety oversight of commercial motor vehicles (CMV), the FMCSA awards HP funds to support innovative and impactful projects that advance its mission to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses. Funding is available for the support of enforcement projects that improve safety and compliance with CMV regulations for projects that are national in scope, increase public awareness/ education, demonstrate new technologies, and reduce the number/rate of CMV crashes.

This NOFO provides important information about the FY 2018 HP Innovative Technology Deployment (HP-ITD) and HP Commercial Motor Vehicle (HP-CMV) safety priorities, highlighting the critical information related to preparing and submitting an application.

2) Project Types under the HP Financial Assistance Programs.

Unless indicated otherwise, references to the HP program include both HP-ITD and HP-CMV applications. Projects under this program grant are defined as follows:

i) The HP-ITD projects include the deployment of intelligent transportation system applications for CMV operations; support/maintenance of CMV information systems/networks, the linking of FMCSA and state information systems, the improvement of safety and productivity of CMVs and commercial drivers and the reduction of costs associated with CMV operations and regulatory requirements.

ii) The HP-CMV projects include the augmentation of motor carrier safety projects planned in accordance with the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP), as well as projects related to Performance and Registration Information Systems Management (PRISM) and State Safety Data Quality (SSDQ).

3) National Priorities Descriptions.

Below are descriptions of the programmatic activities listed in order of priority. Please note that additional information regarding cost eligibility may be found within the MCSAP Grant Comprehensive Policy (MCP). An electronic copy of the MCP may be found here: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/mission/grants/motor-carrier-safety-assistance-program-grant-comprehensive-policy

i) High Priority-Innovative Technology Deployment.

a) General.

Only States are eligible to apply under this Priority. The HP program provides financial assistance to states to advance technological capability and promote the deployment of intelligent transportation system applications. Projects funded under ITD support FMCSA’s safety initiatives for CMV operations, commercial drivers, and carrier-specific information systems and networks; support and maintain CMV information systems and networks; link FMCSA information systems with state CMV information systems; improve the safety and productivity of CMVs and drivers; and reduce the costs associated with CMV operations, and Federal and state CMV regulatory requirements.

b) Consideration for Funding.

The applications received for HP-ITD projects will be given consideration for funding as follows:

A) Applications received from state agencies to meet Core compliance, which includes a Commercial Vehicle Information Exchange Window (CVIEW), and/or the development or updating of a PP/TLD that describes the various systems and networks that must be refined, revised, upgraded or built to accomplish Core capabilities as defined in MCSAP Comprehensive Policy (MCP). A CVIEW is an integral part of the ITD project and is a key mechanism through which agencies can share CMV credential and safety information within the state and with other jurisdictions across the country. The importance of this interstate data exchange to roadside enforcement and credential administrations cannot be over-emphasized as it enables numerous critical safety programs to check for high risk motor carriers and Federal out-of-service orders. This also provides real-time electronic screening of interstate vehicles for safety, International Fuel Tax Agreement, International Registration Plan (IRP), Oversize/Overweight Permits, and other compliance information critical to a state’s safety program.

B) Applications that improve credentialing data quality when information is uploaded from the state to FMCSA’s Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) system should include projects that ensure CVIEW applications capture updates sent to the SAFER system on a daily basis. Such applications should describe the measures to ensure the accuracy and quality of the data exchanged, promote efficient system communication, and prevent system corruption or performance degradation. All Core ITD performance measures related to credential administration and safety information exchange must be maintained to remain Core certified. The FMCSA will reimburse 85 percent of the total project cost for this type of project.

C) Applications for Innovative Technologies for states that have met Core ITD requirements that include, but are not limited to:

(1). Deploying a work-zone and incident electronic notification system that will notify the CMV driver within the cab of the vehicle of an active work zone, traffic congestion, or an incident ahead. The alert system must be able to be broadcasted through the CMVs transponders, electronic on-board systems, cell phones, and/or motor carrier routing and dispatching systems. The FMCSA will reimburse 85 percent of the total project cost for this type of project.

(2) Deploying a CMV truck parking project. Projects associated with this priority should demonstrate real-time dissemination to a CMV driver of truck parking space availability information based on using: dynamic message signs, interactive voice recognition, smartphone app, or other proven technology. The FMCSA will award 85 percent of the total project cost.

(3) Deploying thermal imaging technology used in detecting inoperable, defective, or deficient brakes, tires or exhaust system that may cause an unsafe condition. This electronic screening technology would be used while the vehicle is in motion and would provide the ability to capture heat signatures of both sides of a CMV, and provide an alert or indicator to an electronic screening system. The FMCSA will reimburse 85 percent of the total project cost for this type of project D) Operations and Maintenance (O&M).

The FMCSA will consider applications for O&M costs associated with maintaining Core ITD compliance. Eligible projects that maintain and repair property that is not a system or a system based on its status and abilities will be considered. The O&M costs may also include memberships, fees, dues, travel and other related project costs that maintain or support Core deployment projects, and are further defined in the MCP. The FMCSA will award 85 percent of eligible and approved O&M costs for approved HP-ITD deployment projects.

Note: Dues and/or memberships and participation costs for personnel outside of the applicant’s organization are unallowable. Further guidance on dues/memberships can be found in the MCP.

An HP-ITD application from an agency of the state that is not responsible for submitting the CVSP for that state and has an HP-ITD O&M requested for Expanded ITD projects will be considered only after other HP-ITD National Priorities outlined in above Section A, High Priority Overview have been considered.

An application from an agency of the state that is responsible for submitting the CVSP that has any HP-ITD O&M requested, will only be considered for funding after other HP-ITD and HP-CMV safety applications.

E) Other typical projects and costs associated with HP-ITD funded by FMCSA are outlined in section 6 and Appendix H of the MCP. Any innovative technology solutions meeting the goals established within the ITD project, but not listed in the MCP, may be submitted for consideration if the particular project is in the approved PP/TLD. A project in an approved PP/TLD is not an indication that a requested project within an application will be approved.

c) Cost Matching under this Priority.

The FMCSA will reimburse eligible costs at the rate of 100 percent (no match/cost-share required) in the deployment of an HP-ITD CVIEW outlined in an approved project plan for states that have not achieved Core ITD certification and have not been reimbursed for a CVIEW project previously by FMCSA.

All other approved projects will be reimbursed at the rate of 85 percent of eligible costs, requiring a match/cost share of 15 percent.

ii) HP- CMV Safety Projects.

a) General.

The HP grant program provides financial assistance to carry out projects that augment motor carrier safety initiatives, and enhance efforts proposed in the CVSP. The goal is to enable recipients to carry out enforcement projects that improve CMV safety and compliance with CMV regulations. Funding is also available for projects that are national in scope, increase public awareness and education, demonstrate new technologies and reduce the number of CMV crashes.

Please note that routine equipment and operational expenses should be supported under a state’s MCSAP formula grant award to a MCSAP lead agency and will not be considered under the HP program. Territories will be eligible to request equipment and related expenses to supplement their MCSAP projects if they can clearly demonstrate safety enforcement need relative to their current MCSAP allocation.

Applicants should refer to the MCP for guidance on HP-CMV policies and eligible projects and costs.

The FMCSA will reserve up to $300,000 to allow one (1) state personnel to participate in a project at FMCSA Headquarters offices. This project will improve the national commercial vehicle enforcement program by providing state perspective to national decision making and policy development relating to the implementation of FMCSA’s Integrated Inspection Management System (IIMS) and related inspection modernization efforts. Thus, the purpose of this project is to directly benefit State and local CMV safety agencies and further the intent of the HP program.

Applications must ensure that the project is assigned to an individual with demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully complete the related tasks and activities. Discussions with the individual identified for this project within the grant application may be required prior to award.

The expectation for this project is that the individual will be detached from their responsibilities in their home state and will focus on the implementation of FMCSA’s Integrated Inspection Management System and related inspection modernization efforts.

The FMCSA will provide individuals with working space and necessary equipment/supplies (e.g., computer, office supplies) during the assignment.

The FMCSA will not directly pay for or reimburse the employee. The state agency of the employee must seek reimbursement from FMCSA for these expenses.

B) Budget Under this Priority.

In addition, applicants must include a budget which provides:

(1) Lodging costs in the Washington, DC metropolitan area (e.g., a furnished ‘corporate’ apartment or extended stay hotel) that does not exceed the FY 2018 General Services Administration’s (GSA) highest daily lodging rate;

(2) Meals and incidental expenses at the GSA daily per diem rate (See http://www.gsa.gov/portal/category/100120 for FY 2018 rates);

(3) Proposed salary and fringe benefit costs of the employee; and

(4) Other allowable expenses that the applicant reasonably estimates it will incur as a result of this opportunity.

C) Cost Matching under this Priority.

The FMCSA will reimburse 100 percent of eligible expenses (no matching share required) under this priority.

D) Period of Performance Under this Priority.

This project is expected to begin on or about October 1, 2018, and be completed by September 30, 2019.

c) Targeted Safety Investment in Areas Impacted by Natural Disasters.

A) General.

The FMCSA will provide funding to States (including local/municipal jurisdictions), Territories and other eligible applicants severely impacted by hurricanes Irma, Harvey and Maria that occurred during calendar year 2017. Severely impacted for the purposes of this award means an area that was declared a “major disaster” as defined under 42 U.S.C. § 5122 pursuant to the hurricane events mentioned previously.

If a jurisdiction or area not expressly declared as falling within a major disaster area, as defined previously wishes to apply for funding under this priority, the applicant will need to clearly demonstrate how the afore mentioned hurricanes caused damage/loss to the extent that the performance of CMV safety activities will be significantly affected.

Funding must be used to assist with CMV safety projects associated with recovery efforts (e.g., overtime hours and supplies) and/or the purchase/replacement of equipment previously purchased using FMCSA funds (excluding buildings or other real property) deemed inoperable due to damage caused by these natural catastrophic events.

B) Equipment Purchases.

For equipment purchases, the applicant must provide documentation regarding:

(1) The documented loss or damage of the equipment including, but not limited to, photos, original purchase orders, reports, insurance claim information and other relevant records in accordance with the applicant’s disposition requirements or those included in 2 C.F.R. part 200 should the applicant not have specific procedures;

(2) Any insurance claims and/or reimbursements that were made or received on the equipment that is being identified for replacement under this priority (This includes any current or expected funds awarded by another Federal or State entity, such as the Federal Management Agency or State equivalent);

(3) Other information as requested by the FMCSA to ensure compliance with necessary federal requirements.

Please note that FMCSA will only reimburse the net cost of replacement. The net cost of replacement should be calculated as the replacement cost of the equipment, minus the “amount” (properly allocated) reimbursed through any insurance coverage placed on the item and minus any funds received through non-federal sources.

For items not insured, the FMCSA will follow the aforementioned process, deducting the amount that would have been covered under insurance (obtained pursuant to sound management practice) in lieu of actual insurance reimbursements received. Applicants must include information substantiating the net cost within their application.

Applicants must include information substantiating the net cost within their application C) Cost Matching under this Priority.

The FMCSA will reimburse 100 percent of eligible expenses (no matching share required) under this priority.

d) PRISM.

A) General All project narratives must indicate what PRISM requirements are being implemented and how the project, once fully deployed, will increase, enhance, or maintain the state’s PRISM implementation.

Before jurisdictions may be awarded funding to implement PRISM, they must have an approved PRISM Implementation Plan, this includes jurisdictions seeking to implement PRISM using an alternative approach.

Only projects involving activities that increase or maintain a jurisdiction’s status on PRISM implementation, and projects listed below will be considered for funding in FY2018.

Applicants should refer to the MCP for an explanation of full PRISM participation as mandated under the FAST Act.

For an overview of the PRISM program visit: www.fmcsa.dot.gov/information-systems/prism/states-using-prism.

For PRISM Registration Requirements, please visit: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/information-systems/prism/registration-requirements For questions about the PRISM Target file or PRISM Web Services, please contact the PRISM Technical Support Team at: PRISMTechnicalSupport@dot.gov B) Application Consideration Based on Entity.

The applications received for HP-CMV PRISM participation will be considered as follows:

(1) The FMCSA will consider applications received from non-participating PRISM agencies that have not reached full participation or that demonstrate participation in an equivalent approach to implement projects that include, any and/or all of the following:

(i). Collect/Validate USDOT Number and Tax Identification Number for the Motor Carrier Responsible for Safety at the vehicle level.

(ii). Update the PRISM/SAFER database daily with vehicle registration information by uploading either a PRISM Vehicle File or ITD T0022 transaction.

(iii) Implement a process to deny and suspend the registration of a carrier under a Federal (OOS) order by FMCSA.

(2) The FMCSA will consider applications from jurisdictions that fully participate in PRISM that propose to increase the level of participation, which implement projects that include the following:

(i) Maintain and update the IRP Status Code within the vehicle registration records that are uploaded to the PRISM/SAFER database and apply the 950 status code to vehicles that are suspended due to a Federal OOS order.

(ii) Maintain and update the vehicle record with a suspension indicator in the state vehicle registration system to support the International Justice and Public Safety Network (NLETS) registration queries.

(iii) Check all Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) entered into the registration system against the PRISM Target File to verify the vehicle is not associated to a motor carrier that is under a Federal out-of-service (OOS) order.

(3) The FMCSA will consider applications from PRISM jurisdictions that want to enhance their program to utilize real-time data for registration validation and targeting of OOS carriers or to streamline a process that will provide more timely and accurate information for PRISM projects that include, but are not limited to the following:

(i) Implement PRISM Web Services into the registration process for real-time validation of carrier safety information.

(ii) Implement an automated process to capture the denials and suspensions to support the PRISM quarterly reporting requirement and generate VIN removal emails.

(iii) Implement/update materials such as IRP Manuals, cab cards or brochures to educate and/or require carriers to update the Motor Carrier Responsible for Safety on record if it changes during the registration period.

C) Cost Matching under this Priority.

For FY 2018, FMCSA may award up to 100 percent for the approved total project costs for PRISM project(s) focused on achieving full participation for agencies that have not previously received financial assistance for implementing PRISM. All other PRISM projects would be awarded at 85 percent of the approved total project cost.

e) State Safety Data Quality.

A) General.

The FMCSA will reimburse 85 percent of eligible costs incurred in the administration of approved projects that will improve the quality of state CMV safety data. The FMCSA's data-driven safety programs use state-reported data from crashes and inspections to prioritize resources for the greatest impact on large truck and bus safety. The FMCSA SSDQ program focuses on maintaining high quality data from our state partners. Data quality is monitored through a set of SSDQ performance measures that assess the completeness, timeliness, accuracy, and consistency of state-reported crash and inspection records in the Motor Carrier Management Information System. Each month, states receive overall state ratings of “good,” “fair,” or “poor” based on eight SSDQ performance measures and one indicator.

B) Application Consideration Based on Entity.

The FMCSA will consider for funding the applications received for Safety Data Quality as follows:

(1) Data projects that improve CMV data collected on PARs through increased implementation of the MMUCC. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released the 5th edition MMUCC guidance in August 2017. This expands the information collected on CMVs in a new Large Vehicles and Hazardous Materials section. More information can be found at https://www.nhtsa.gov/about-mmucc.

(2) Training projects for state and local law enforcement to improve the collection of CMV data on PARs.

(3) Technology projects which add to crash and/or inspection data collection that automates the verification of driver, vehicle and motor carrier information. Such projects include, but are not limited to, enhanced VIN screening and data input/verification through NHTSA’s Product Information Catalog and Vehicle Listing (vPIC) VIN decoder (https://vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov/), replacing crash location data with geocoded location data, or improving coordination between SAFETYNET and NHTSA’s Fatality Analysis Recording System coders.

(4) Innovative projects for resolving Requests for Data Review (RDRs) entered through DataQs to improve timeliness, consistency, and/or accountability.

(5) Innovative projects for improving the state’s performance in the SSDQ results.

C) SSDQ Results Information.

For projects seeking to improve SSDQ results, there are additional constraints and priorities depending on which agency is submitting the application:

(1) For Agencies not responsible for submitting the CVSP.

Applications that contain projects that allow the state to complete the MCSAP requirements for safety data collection and participation in information reporting well be considered. In this context, complete the MCSAP requirements for participation means achieving an overall “good” rating in the SSDQ measures if the state does not have an overall good rating at the time of HP application.

Then, applications that contain projects that will allow the state to exceed the MCSAP requirements for participation. In this context, exceed the MCSAP requirements for participation means achieving a “good” rating in all SSDQ measures if the state has an overall “good” rating at the time of HP application. For state SSDQ ratings please visit: https://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/DataQuality/.

Note: Agencies not responsible for submitting the state’s CVSP that apply for HP funding for safety data related projects must confirm and document coordination in the application (i.e., to include in the application which agency was contacted, date contact was made, and who was contacted) with the Agency responsible for submitting the CVSP.

(2) For Agencies responsible for submitting the CVSP.

Applications that contain projects that will allow the state to exceed the MCSAP requirements for safety data collection and participation in information reporting. In this context, exceed the MCSAP requirements for participation means achieving a “good” rating in all SSDQ measures if the state has an overall “good” rating. Projects may include, but are not limited to, the following:

(i) Development and implementation of policies and/or procedures directly related to the improvement of timeliness, accuracy and completeness of safety data;

(ii) Establishing and maintaining a DataQs Review Council (see DataQs Analyst Guide - https://dataqs.fmcsa.dot.gov); or

(iii) Implementation of procedures to ensure that at least 85 percent of Requests for Data Reviews are closed out within 14 days of receipt (not counting the time for the carrier and other Agencies to respond to questions).

The FMCSA has determined that each state must achieve an overall “good” rating, as published in the SSDQ ratings map posted on FMCSA Analysis & Information website (https://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/DataQuality/Default.aspx), in order to be considered compliant with the MCSAP eligibility requirement related to data quality.

D) Cost Matching under this Priority.

The FMCSA will reimburse at 85 percent of eligible costs incurred under this priority.

f) Enforcement of Safe CMV Operation and Compliance with Safety Regulations.

These projects may include the following activities:

(A) Targeting unsafe driving of CMVs and non-CMVs in areas identified as high-risk crash corridors.

(1) General.

Funds are available for the administration of targeting unsafe driving of CMVs and non-CMVs in areas identified as high crash corridors. Any collision involving a large truck or bus has the potential to be a fatal event.

In the application, the applicant must provide clear data (reports, maps, and/or analysis) that identifies these corridors (the specific highway and the mile markers involved; including analysis of the previous three year averages for these corridors). Based on emerging data trends, applicants may modify the specific corridors during the period of performance, but the application must identify the initial corridors; specify the specific enforcement strategies that the applicant will conduct to reduce the crash rate in these corridors. The applicant will explain how it will monitor and report on the results of these projects. The applicant will also indicate how it will evaluate the outcome and success of this enforcement project to demonstrate whether increased vehicle contacts, issuance of traffic citations, and traffic citation convictions and the impact this has on overall crash rates.

The applicant must demonstrate how these projects will go beyond the traditional traffic enforcement projects included in their state’s CVSP, and outline how they will report the number of contacts plus enforcement actions issued in their quarterly reports for the Division to upload in GOTHAM.

(2) Cost Matching under this Priority.

The FMCSA will reimburse at 85 percent of eligible costs incurred under this priority.

B) CMV safety on Rural Roads.

(1) General.

Rural Roads is a particular concern because a disproportionate share of highway fatalities occur on rural roads. While 19 percent of the U.S. population lives in rural areas, rural road fatalities account for roughly 50 percent of all traffic fatalities. The fatality rate, as measured by fatalities per vehicle miles traveled, is 2.6 times higher in rural areas than in urban areas.

Funds are available for projects targeting the safe operation of CMV’s and enforcement of Federal CMV regulations in rural areas as defined in the Highway Functional Classification Guidelines on the FHWA Office of Planning, Environment, & Realty website at:

https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/processes/statewide/related/highway_functional_classifications/section00.cfm Please refer to Section 6 of the above linked document for definitions of urban versus rural areas.

States may also use their High Risk Rural Roads (HRRR) definition to identify focus areas under this activity. Please note that FMCSA cannot reimburse for costs supported under an award through the FHWA or other Federal entity. Information on HRRR may be found here: https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/hsip/hrrr/

(2) Cost Matching under this Priority.

The FMCSA will reimburse 85 percent of eligible costs incurred in carrying out this priority.

C) Improvements for the Safe Transportation of Goods and Persons in Foreign Commerce.

(1) General.

In the application, the applicant must provide statistical data or an articulable fact that demonstrates a CMV safety problem in specified corridors, related to CMVs transporting goods or persons in foreign commerce. Based on data, the state may modify the specific corridors during the period of performance, but the application must identify the initial corridors; specify the specific enforcement strategies that the states will conduct to improve safe transportation of goods and persons within their state.

The applicant must capture the number of contacts plus the number of enforcement actions issued for CMV without an inspection and provide it in their quarterly reports for the Division to upload in GOTHAM. Priority consideration will be given to non-border states that can document the safety impact of CMVs engaged in international commerce within their jurisdiction.

In addition, the applicant must demonstrate how these projects will go beyond the traditional enforcement projects for state agency responsible for submitting the CVSP.

(2) Cost Matching under this Priority.

The FMCSA will reimburse 85 percent of eligible costs incurred in the administration of projects aimed at improving the safe transportation of goods and persons in foreign commerce.

D) Public Awareness and Education.

(1) General.

Public Education and Awareness projects provide information on a variety of traffic safety issues related to CMVs and non-CMVs which operate around large trucks and buses. Applicants must describe the type of projects they plan to conduct, including but not limited to passenger transportation, hazardous materials transportation, and share the road safely initiatives, including the number of personnel and the level of effort that will be part of this effort.

(2) Cost Matching under this Priority.

The FMCSA will reimburse 85 percent of eligible costs incurred for carrying out this priority.

E) Improve CMV Safety and Compliance with CMV Safety Regulations.

(i) Motorcoach safety initiatives;

(ii) Distracted driving by CMV Operators and others operating around CMVs;

(iii) CMV safety in Work Zones; and

(iv) Innovative efforts that have a demonstrable potential for nationwide implementation.

(2) Cost Matching under this Priority.

The FMCSA will reimburse 85 percent of eligible costs incurred for carrying out this priority.

F) Technologies to improve CMV safety.

(1) General.

Funds are available for the demonstration of innovative methods for technologies to improve CMV safety. Applications must be supported by data justifying the need to identify, develop, maintain and/or implement new and/or existing technologies to improve CMV enforcement techniques. Examples include, but are not limited to, implementation of FMCSA’s electronic logging device requirements and the purchase of License Plate/US DOT readers to augment enforcement efforts.

Applicants must include clear performance measurements to evaluate the outcome of the project(s), and include these statistics within their quarterly Performance Progress Report (SF-PPR) to FMCSA. Metrics must be relevant to the use of purchased technology within the project framework, and if applicable, identify the number of CMVs/carriers screened and/or contacted.

Applicants requesting funding for technology related project costs connected to a HP-ITD request must include these items ONLY within their HP-ITD application to ensure projects are evaluated according to FAST Act requirements.

(2) Cost Match.

The FMCSA will reimburse 85 percent of eligible costs incurred in carrying out this priority..

SECTION B – FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

1) Funding and Number of Awards.

The FMCSA anticipates making 125 award(s) totaling $42,453,500.00 as a result of this Notice of Funding Opportunity. FMCSA plans to set aside up to $20,000,000 for eligible HP-ITD related projects. Therefore, $22,453,500 will be available for HP-CMV related projects. The FMCSA reserves the right to allocate additional funds for awards under either HP-CMV and HP ITD related projects based on the volume and quality of applications. Awards under the HP program are subject to funding availability.

The FMCSA anticipates Federal funding up to a total amount of $2,000,000 per award may be made available for this Agreement subject to the availability of funds.

2) Type of Award.

The planned award type(s) under this Notice are Grant and Cooperative Agreement The FMCSA will determine the appropriate award type based on the proposed project.

Applications are for new FMCSA awards only. Applications for renewal or supplementation of existing awards are not eligible.

3) Period of Performance.

Unless otherwise stated in Section (A), the period of performance for this Agreement will be as listed below:

i) HP-ITD projects – fiscal year in which the award is made plus four additional fiscal years.

ii) HP-CMV projects – fiscal year in which the award is made plus two additional fiscal years.

4) Degree of Federal Involvement.

i) Cooperative Agreement: There is substantial involvement (e.g., collaboration, participation, or intervention by FMCSA in the management of the project) anticipated between FMCSA and the recipient during performance of the contemplated activity. See 31 U.S.C. § 6305.

Cooperative agreements are subject to the same laws OMB, Treasury, and other Federal directives as grants. For examples of oversight activities that would demonstrate substantial involvement by the go to: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/mission/grants/cooperative-agreements

ii) Grant: Substantial involvement is not expected between FMCSA and the recipient when carrying out the activity outlined in the agreement. The FMCSA provides financial assistance, technical expertise, and oversight. Grantees provide the effort and expertise necessary to carry out the approved activities to improve CMV safety. The FMCSA grantees are responsible for achieving the work described in their grant award, complying with the grant requirements laid out in the grant award’s Terms and Conditions, the local administration of the grant, and monitoring and oversight of any sub-grantees.

SECTION C – ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION.

1) Eligible Applicants. The following section includes the applicants eligible for award.

Different entities are eligible for different national priorities listed under Heading A, and this is detailed below. This includes the eligibility of types of applicant organizations, any factors affecting the eligibility of the principal investigator or project director, and any criteria that make projects ineligible. The OA/SO should make clear whether an applicant's failure to meet an eligibility criterion by the time of an application deadline will result in the OA/SO returning the application without review or, even though an application may be reviewed, will preclude the OA/SO from making a Federal award. Key elements to be addressed are:

i) HP-ITD awards are available to States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to deploy, operate, and maintain elements of their ITD projects. The FMCSA may award HP-ITD funds to eligible applicants that have an approved project plan as outlined in the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. Individuals and businesses are not eligible to apply for HP-ITD funding. To be eligible for HP-ITD funding, the state applicant must:

a) Certify that the lead agency responsible for the Program Plan and Top-level Design (PP/TLD), or the applicant has a Memorandum of Understanding, or other agreement with the ITD lead agency.

b) If the applicant is not the ITD lead agency as outlined in the approved PP/TLD, the applicant must confirm that they have coordinated with the ITD lead agency regarding all projects requested in the application to ensure state-wide effectiveness and efficiency and to avoid any duplication of effort or other wastefulness in Federal funding initiatives.

ii) HP-CMV awards are available to States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, local governments (including county, city, township, special district, and Federally-recognized Native American tribal governments), institutions of higher education (public, private, and state-controlled), non-profit organizations with or without having a 501(c)(3) status with the Internal Revenue Service, for-profit entities (including small businesses), and other persons. “Other persons” is defined as an entity not included above but may not be an individual, foreign entity, hospital, public/Indian housing authority, or Federal institution.

iii) Participation by Local Law Enforcement Agencies and Other Applicants The FMCSA strongly encourages the participation of local law enforcement agencies, local governments, Federally recognized Indian tribes, political jurisdictions and other eligible applicants in CMV safety projects either directly or in partnership with state enforcement officers. Any local law enforcement agency applying directly to FMCSA for HP funding must provide a statement within the application certifying the applicant meets the nine conditions below from 49 C.F.R. § 350.203.

Non-law enforcement applicants must also certify compliance with the below conditions, but may state within their application a reason for exemption to conditions c, h and i if they are not directly responsible for law enforcement activity and/or no current database access exists for their specific project.

a) The application was prepared in accordance with 49 CFR §350.213, as applicable.

b) The application was coordinated with the state lead MCSAP agency to ensure the application is consistent with state and national CMV safety project priorities.

c) Certify that their local jurisdiction has the legal authority, resources, and trained and qualified personnel necessary to perform the functions specified in the application.

d) A designated person will be responsible for implementation, reporting, and administering the approved application and will be the primary contact for the project.

e) Agree to fund up to 15 percent of the proposed request (unless otherwise stipulated in the Federal award).

f) Agree to prepare and submit all reports required in connection with the application or other conditions of the award.

g) Agree to use the forms and reporting criteria required by the state lead MCSAP agency and/or FMCSA to record work activities to be performed under the application.

h) Certify that the local agency will impose sanctions for violations of CMV and driver laws and regulations that are consistent with those of the state.

i) Certify participation in national data bases appropriate to the project.

2) Cost-Sharing and Matching Requirements.

The FMCSA will reimburse costs incurred in the administration of an approved project plan, except as otherwise noted within this NOFO, which will require the award recipient to include the matching or cost- sharing contribution as identified within the specific National Priority in Section A.

Applicants are reminded that FMCSA has identified certain items as reimbursable at 100 percent (requiring no matching finds) and others at the level of 85 percent (requiring a 15 percent match on the part of the awardee) in Section A(3) under National Priorities. As such, applicants should pay close attention to matching requirements when completing their HP proposals Cash and/or in-kind contributions are acceptable in meeting the matching share if they represent eligible costs as established by 2 C.F.R. part 200 and FMCSA policy. The FMCSA may waive matching requirements for any awards made under the HP Program to the applicants impacted by the afore mentioned hurricanes under Section A.

SECTION D - APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION.

Applicants must submit separate applications for HP-ITD projects and HP-CMV projects. Applications containing proposals under both national priorities may be eliminated from consideration.

Please note that a project proposal may consist of one or more activities that work towards achieving a defined goal and objective(s). If an applicant chooses to propose multiple HP-ITD or HP-CMV projects within a single application, each application must contain separate and distinct project narratives, budget narratives, line item budgets, and project subtitles for each subproject proposed within that application.

1) Address.

The FMCSA utilizes Grants.gov (www.grants.gov) for accepting application forms under this program.

2) Content and Form of Application Submission.

Applications must contain the below elements and all documentation described in Appendix A to be considered for an award. Appendix B contains example formats that may, but are not required to be used. When completing the Application for Federal Assistance SF-424 form, applicants must indicate whether the application type is an “HP-ITD” or “HP-CMV” in box 15, “Descriptive Title of Applicant’s Project.”

i) Brief Introduction.

Include a 1-2 sentence description of the goal(s) of the application and the applicable program priority(s) met by the application’s projects. Include in this introduction specific information about the outputs the application proposes to achieve. For each goal identified, the applicant must provide a problem statement, performance objective, program activity plan, and performance measurement plan.

ii) Problem Statement.

A quantitative description of the identified problem. Include details on the data used to identify the problem and to establish the baseline (include data source, date, and explain how the applicant collects, maintains, and analyzes the data). Data should support proposed project(s).

iii) Performance Objective.

A description of the applicant’s quantifiable goal related to the above problem statement. This can be measured in numbers, percentages, or other forms that accurately measure the outputs and outcomes the applicant anticipates will result from implementing the strategies and activities proposed.

iv) Program Activity Plan.

A description of the activities the applicant believes will help mitigate the problem. Description should include details such as number and frequency of activities.

v) Performance Measurement Plan.

A description of how the applicant will measure progress towards the performance objective goal, such as quantifiable and measurable outputs (hours, carrier contacts, inspections, etc.) and in terms of performance outcomes. The measure must include specific benchmarks that can be reported on in the quarterly progress report, if practicable, or as annual outcomes.

vi) Budget Narrative.

A budget narrative is a description, by budget category (object class) that details the costs necessary to complete the proposed projects. A well-written budget narrative ensures that the applicant has properly documented proposed costs. The level of detail should be sufficient to justify the funding requested. Applicants are strongly encouraging to use the sample budget narrative format included in Appendix B

vii) Monitoring and Reporting Plan.

A description of the state's method for ongoing monitoring of the progress of the project. This should include who will conduct the monitoring, the frequency with which it will be carried out, and how and to whom reports will be made.

3) Sam.Gov requirement.

Every applicant must 1) be registered in the System for Award Management (www.SAM.gov) before submitting the application; 2) provide a valid Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number in its application; and 3) continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active Federal award or an application under consideration by FMCSA.

4) Submission Dates and Times.

i) Deadline.

Unsolicited applications will not be accepted. FULL AND COMPLETE APPLICATIONS FOR High Priority Program Financial Assistance ARE DUE ON May 21, 2018 by 5:00 pm EST. Once Grants.gov has received your submission, you will receive email messages to advise you of the progress of your application through the system. Over the next two business days, you should receive two emails: 1) confirms application receipt by the Grants.gov system; and 2) indicates that the application has either been successfully validated by Grants.gov prior to transmission to FMCSA or has been rejected due to errors. The applicant assumes responsibility for a timely and complete submission. Click here for more information.

ii) Consideration of Applications.

Only applicants who comply with all submission deadlines described in this notice and electronically submit valid applications through Grants.gov will be eligible for consideration of award. Applicants are strongly encouraged to make submissions in advance of the deadline.

iii) Late Applications.

The FMCSA will not consider a late application except under extraordinary circumstances. A late application will only be accepted if there is a large scale natural disaster or a grants.gov system issue that threatens the timely submission of a grant application. Problems with computer systems at the applicant organization, failure to follow the application instructions or failure to submit or complete the program application or complete required registrations by the submission deadline are not considered system issues.

iv) Modifications.

Modifications to an application after it has been submitted will require a resubmission of the entire application package. The applicant must notify the FMCSA GMO prior to resubmitting the package. Submitting changes to Grants.gov without contacting the FMCSA GMO could significantly delay application submission and may result in the application not being accepted as complete.

5) Intergovernmental Review.

The High Priority Program and this funding opportunity are subject to Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.” The States with a Single Point of Contact (SPOC) and therefore a requirement to comply with E.O. 12372 are listed in the Office of Management and Budget's Web site. www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

6) Funding Restrictions.

HP funds are awarded through a competitive evaluation process and are not guaranteed. All funding decisions will be made based on the Agency’s priorities and the merits of the respective applications.

All cost elements of an application must be necessary, reasonable, allocable, and allowable to accomplish the goals of the project. Cost eligibility standards are described in the applicable cost principles and administrative requirements:

i) 2 CFR part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards; and

ii) The FMCSA’s MCP, as revised in June 2016 (available from FMCSA's Division Offices) and on the FMCSA MCSAP Website at: www.fmcsa.dot.gov/grants/mcsap-basic-incentive-grant/motor-carrier-safety-assistance-program-mcsap-basic-and-incentive.

In accordance with the provisions of 49 C.F.R. § 350.311 and the Federal Uniform Administrative Requirements Cost Principles, additional guidance on eligible expenses under MCSAP is included in the MCP, which FMCSA updated in June 2016. States are strongly encouraged to review the MCP, especially the cost eligibility table, when preparing the FY 2018 CVSP. The eligibility of all expenditures is subject to review by FMCSA.

The FMCSA is not obligated to approve costs incurred outside the award period of performance. These costs are incurred at the risk of the state lead agency and impose no obligation on FMCSA to make an award or to increase the amount of the approved budget.

The FMCSA will not approve reimbursement requests for indirect costs if an approved indirect cost rate agreement was not in place for the period of time the indirect cost expenses were incurred.

Applicants are reminded that, as a condition of award, they agree to adhere to the relevant conditions and requirements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment (Buy American) Act of 2009.

All FMCSA grant programs are cost reimbursable, which means that grant recipients must first expend their own money before vouchering by submitting an invoice to FMCSA for costs associated with approved activities identified in the grant agreement. Recipients will be reimbursed by FMCSA for actual costs incurred provided that the costs are reasonable, approved, allowable, and allocable in accordance with the OMB regulations and FMCSA policy, within the approved budget, and supported by documentation. Recipients must request reimbursement at least once each quarter.

The FMCSA will not reimburse an amount that is more than the Federal share of costs incurred as of the date of the voucher.

Recipients must submit requests for reimbursement electronically through the Delphi eInvoicing System…