Planning funds previously available under the Small Area Transportation Study (SATS) program are now available through Planning Assistance for Rural Areas (PARA). The PARA program is sponsored by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Transportation Planning Division, and provides federal funds to non-metropolitan communities for the purpose of conducting transportation planning studies. Eligible applicants include counties, cities and towns located outside the boundaries of Transportation Management Associations, as well as all tribes.

PARA funds are limited to planning applications, and may not be used for the design or construction of transportation facilities. PARA funds may be applied to address a broad range of planning issues related to roadway and non-motorized transportation modes.

Partnerships between communities are encouraged. PARA funds may be used for planning studies that address the needs of multiple jurisdictions, as well as for needs that are limited to neighborhoods within jurisdictions. Applicants are encouraged to focus their requests for funding on the most critical transportation planning needs identified in their communities. PARA funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis and are 100% reimbursable. ADOT will enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with applicants that are awarded PARA funds.  The successful applicant must issue a Notice to Proceed to a consultant within six months of the finalization of the IGA.For more information, click on the links below.