The Weston–Underwood segment of the Great American Rail Trail took a significant step forward this month when the Iowa Transportation Commission approved the application to the Statewide Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program (TAP).

The approval, issued at the Commission’s January 13, 2026 meeting, includes $1,920,435 in funding through the Transportation Alternatives Program. These federal transportation funds are anticipated to be available beginning October 1, 2026, which marks the start of Federal Fiscal Year 2027.

This milestone advances planning efforts for the Weston–Underwood trail segment. Before eligible reimbursable project expenses may occur, the project must receive authorization from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and be included in the Metropolitan Area Planning Agency’s (MAPA) FFY 2027 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as well as the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).

Photos courtesy of Pottawattamie County Trails Association and Western Iowa Development Association. (Via Pottcounty-ia.gov)

In addition to the TAP award, the Weston–Underwood segment has also received $500,000 through the State Recreational Trails Program, approved by the Iowa Transportation Commission in November 2025. This funding is part of a broader, multi-source approach to advancing the project.

These awards do not fully fund the Weston–Underwood segment. Pottawattamie County is awaiting decisions on two additional grant applications, expected in the coming months, that could help close the remaining funding gap.

Additional updates will be shared as the project continues through required planning and authorization steps.