EVALUATION

Transit-Oriented Communities Grant 2024

Last updated by Addendum #2 on May 17, 2024 10:32 PM

General Solicitation

Transit-Oriented Development

Project ID: TOC-GR24

Release Date: Monday, April 1, 2024

· Due Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2024 4:00pm

Posted Wednesday, April 3, 2024 1:40pm

All dates & times in Pacific Time

Question & Answer

Questions and clarifications about the project

The question submission deadline has passed. No more questions can be submitted.

1. TOD Area Map Apr 18 2024 at 10:12 AM

Apr 18 2024 at 10:12 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Is there a visual map for the TOD areas? I see verbiage about the 0.5 mile radius qualifier.
Apr 19 2024 at 5:09 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Applicants can check if their project location is eligible for the grant using the Eligibility Map available at: https://www.vta.org/programs/toc/transit-oriented-communities/grants#accordion-eligibility-map The mapping tool will prompt the applicant to enter the proposed project's address to see if it qualifies for the grant. The project address should appear within the green area. Funding is limited to projects within one-half mile of existing and planned VTA light rail stations, VTA transit centers, and commuter rail stations served by Caltrain, ACE, and/or Capitol Corridor within Santa Clara County.

2. Small Business and Commercial Preservation Support Outcome Apr 18 2024 at 10:19 AM

Apr 18 2024 at 10:19 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
On page 5 of the NOFA, "small business and commercial preservation support" is listed as an eligible activity in the Community Resilience. If this is our focus, which outcome would apply (looking at Attachment C, page 10)?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
For small business and commercial preservation support, applicable outcomes may include any of the following, depending on the project: B2: The project raises the profile of CBO as a community development stakeholder; B4: The project increases CBO's ability to mitigate displacement; and/or B5: The project reduces overall transportation or housing cost burdens for limited-income individuals.

3. Evaluation Criteria for Small Business Preservation and Support Apr 18 2024 at 10:20 AM

Apr 18 2024 at 10:20 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
In the Evaluation Criteria, it seems like Community Resilience applications must focus on Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH) preservation to earn full points. Does this mean that any small business and commercial preservation support must also have a NOAH focus?
Apr 19 2024 at 5:09 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
We are currently drafting new language for Criteria B3 to include the preservation of small businesses. An Addendum will be posted shortly to reflect the change.

4. Multiple Applications Apr 18 2024 at 10:24 AM

Apr 18 2024 at 10:24 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Would we be able to apply for multiple Grant Program Areas for a couple locations. For example, Alum Rock/Little Portugal would benefit from Planning and Policy, Education and Engagement, and the Placemaking and Arts and Activation - would it be possible to apply for all three of the four categories?
Apr 19 2024 at 5:09 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Applicants may submit multiple applications (whether in the same or in different program areas). However, applicants cannot submit more than one application for the same geography or project location.

5. Multiple Applications Apr 18 2024 at 11:20 AM

Anonymous Apr 18 2024 at 11:20 AM
User information is private
Is a jurisdiction able to submit one application under Program A and one application under Program C to fund different aspects of the same project (project encompasses multiple eligible transit stations), in the hopes of being awarded both?
Apr 19 2024 at 5:09 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
See the answer to question #4.

6. Future Funding Cycles Apr 19 2024 at 4:50 PM

Apr 19 2024 at 4:50 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Do you anticipate future funding cycles?
Apr 19 2024 at 5:09 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes. This is the first cycle, and we are excited to learn from the process, grow, and improve. We have approved funding for two cycles. In the future, we’d also look into partnering with philanthropic organizations to provide matching funds.

7. Definition of Local Agencies Apr 19 2024 at 4:52 PM

Apr 19 2024 at 4:52 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
How do you define “local agencies?”
Apr 19 2024 at 5:09 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
A local agency is defined as a a public agency with land use authority or planning activities, located within Santa Clara County. This is typically a town or city, but may also include a school district.

8. Project Timeline Apr 19 2024 at 4:54 PM

Apr 19 2024 at 4:54 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What is the timeline for projects?
Apr 19 2024 at 5:09 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Grants will fund projects and activities that are planned to commence between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. Program Area A and Program Area B must be completed within one to five years of commencement, and Program Area C and Program Area D must be completed within one year of commencement.

9. Funding Distribution Apr 19 2024 at 4:55 PM

Apr 19 2024 at 4:55 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What is the funding distribution?
May 13 2024 at 3:04 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
The funding distribution will be finalized once the Grant Logistics Team and Evaluation Panel finalize the funding agreements. Draft funding agreements will be posted to OpenGov during the open NOFA cycle. The funding disbursement options are: 1) prepayment, 2) periodic payment, 3) task payment, and 4) reimbursement (invoicing)

10. Non-profit Networking Apr 19 2024 at 4:59 PM

Apr 19 2024 at 4:59 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Would VTA consider hosting something for non-profits to get together and talk?
Apr 19 2024 at 5:09 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
There is nothing planned for this application cycle. However, we’d be interested in hosting an event like that as part of VTA’s larger plan to partner with community organizations. We can commit to doing it, but not during the grant application period for this cycle.

11. Infrastructure Apr 19 2024 at 5:04 PM

Apr 19 2024 at 5:04 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Is the program meant to fund infrastructure projects?
Apr 19 2024 at 5:09 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
No, the program is not meant to fund infrastructure projects.

12. Local Match Apr 25 2024 at 4:49 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 4:49 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Does the Local Agency match apply to Program Areas C and D?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
If your organization is a Local Agency applicant, then yes, the local match is required as detailed on page 4 of Attachment A to the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA).

13. Partnership Letter Apr 25 2024 at 4:50 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 4:50 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can VTA prepare a letter of partnership for a city's application regarding a project at a VTA transit station?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Partnership letters from VTA will not be necessary as VTA is the grant provider.

14. Program Area B Scoring Apr 25 2024 at 4:52 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 4:52 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Program B mentions small business and commercial preservation, but everything that comes after is about building affordable housing. It seems like you can’t score more than 4 points. Can you please clarify?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please see the answer to question #3.

15. Local Match Explanation Apr 25 2024 at 4:51 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 4:51 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
How does the 20% local match work?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
A local match is required for all Local Agency applicants, no matter the Program Area. A 10% minimum match for projects up to $120,000 and a minimum 15% match for projects requesting more than $120,000. Please see Attachment A, page 4 of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA).

16. Multiple Applications Apr 25 2024 at 4:53 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 4:53 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can you apply for more than one project at a time?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please see the answer to question #4.

17. Email Confirmation Apr 25 2024 at 4:57 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 4:57 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Do you get a receipt or confirmation once you’ve submitted your application?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, applicants will receive a confirmation of submission to the email address registered to OpenGov.

18. Partnering with non-501(c)(3)s Apr 25 2024 at 4:59 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 4:59 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can your partner be a group, such as a neighborhood association, that is not a 501(c)(3)?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, as long as the main applicant is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, you can partner with a neighborhood association that is not a registered 501(c)(3) organization.

19. Category Determination Apr 25 2024 at 5:00 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 5:00 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
How do we determine which category is the most suitable for a project?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
For applicants considering multiple categories, VTA advises selecting the Program Area that addresses the greatest barriers faced by the organization or the population being served by the project. Applicants may submit one application per project per Program Area. Please see Attachment A, page 3 of the Notice of Funding Agreement (NOFA) for a detailed list of the grant outcomes by category.

20. Multiple Programs Apr 25 2024 at 5:02 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 5:02 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can you apply for more than one program?
Question is acknowledged

21. Non-profit Partnering Apr 25 2024 at 5:03 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 5:03 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can you apply with another non-profit? And would that allow you to increase the amount of the grant?
Apr 25 2024 at 5:06 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, you can apply with another non-profit as your partner. To see the maximum grant per application, please see Table 1 on page 2 of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA).

22. Light-rail Stations Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM

Apr 25 2024 at 5:05 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Where can we find a map of all light rail-stations in San Jose?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please visit the grant homepage vta.org/TOCgrant. You will be able to access the interactive map. If you just want a full list of VTA Light Rail, you can find this on the main VTA site at https://www.vta.org/go/maps.

23. Fillable Application Apr 29 2024 at 4:54 PM

Anonymous Apr 29 2024 at 4:54 PM
User information is private
I've begun to fill out your application. Only about 100 of the 200+ words allowed in a field show up in the form. Do you want us to submit the application in the form? If so, how will you read what we write? I've printed out the form and it only prints what's displayed on the screen.
Question is acknowledged

24. Multiple Applications May 3 2024 at 1:24 PM

May 3 2024 at 1:24 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can we apply for more than one Program?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Each project can only apply for one program area. Applicants are responsible for determining which program area best fits their proposed project and fill out one application for that specific project. Please refer to the response to Question #4 regarding applications for multiple grant areas.

25. Project Timeline May 3 2024 at 1:29 PM

May 3 2024 at 1:29 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What is the grant period? When are projects expected to begin and end?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please reference the response to question #8 regarding project timeline.

26. Applicant Eligibility May 3 2024 at 1:37 PM

May 3 2024 at 1:37 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can a 501(c)(6) apply by itself or do they need a fiscal sponsor?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
A 501(c)(6) can be a partner in the application, but the main applicant must be a 501(c)(3) or a local agency.

27. Multiple Applications May 3 2024 at 1:38 PM

May 3 2024 at 1:38 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can two applications using the same EIN be submitted to support two separate projects?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, applicants may submit applications for separate projects.

28. Application May 3 2024 at 1:42 PM

May 3 2024 at 1:42 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can you please clarify if there is/will be a short application form for Program Area D?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Program Area D does not have a shortened application form. There are not separate applications for each Program Area. Attachment B: Grant Application is the application used for all four Program Areas.

29. Applicant Eligibility May 3 2024 at 1:43 PM

May 3 2024 at 1:43 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Do CBOs need to be serving Santa Clara County for more than one year to apply?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, CBOs must have one year of service in Santa Clara County. Refer to page 2 of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for eligibility criteria.

30. Review Panel May 3 2024 at 1:44 PM

May 3 2024 at 1:44 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Who is on the review panel?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Members of the Evaluation Panel are VTA employees that have multi-disciplinary expertise related to the grant. There is also a community member on the panel.

31. Geographic Area Eligibility May 3 2024 at 1:45 PM

May 3 2024 at 1:45 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Would a project that is located on a BRT line (bus rapid transit) within 1/2 mile of a transit station be eligible?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
For this grant cycle, Rapid Bus stops are not eligible unless located within 1/2 mile of a Transit Station/Center as defined in the NOFA. Use the interactive mapping tool at vta.org/TOCgrant to verify the eligibility of your project location.

32. Multiple Applications May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM

May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Would you create a new application for each program area?
May 3 2024 at 1:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Each project can only apply for one program area. Applicants are responsible for determining which program area best fits their proposed project and fill out one application for that specific project. Please refer to the response to Question #4 regarding applications for multiple grant areas.

33. Do nonprofits need a partner? May 8 2024 at 9:28 AM

Anonymous May 8 2024 at 9:28 AM
User information is private
Reading through the application and attending the workshop, we are still a little confused if nonprofits need to have a partner for applying for any of the program categories? Can you please clarify? If the case is such that non-profits do not "need" to have a partner - would the nonprofit lose 2 points in the evaluation criteria?
May 13 2024 at 3:04 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
If an applicant does not have a partner, the application will not earn full points under the Partnerships criteria under the Administrative and Transit-Oriented Elements. For projects that do not require a partner for implementation applicants are encouraged get letters of support from existing or past partners.

34. Grant Cycles May 8 2024 at 9:03 PM

May 8 2024 at 9:03 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Is this an annual grant? Is this one-time funding, or is it possible to obtain multiple years of funding as the project continues to evolve over time?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, applicants may apply for future cycles of the VTA Transit-Oriented Communities Grant to continue funding the same project, if the project meets the requirements for future Notices of Funding Availability. There is no guarantee of a future grant award in the next cycle if your project is selected in this first cycle.

35. Placemaking May 8 2024 at 9:03 PM

May 8 2024 at 9:03 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What is your definition of “placemaking”?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Refer to page 6 in the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) to read the description of placemaking.

36. Program Area A May 8 2024 at 9:06 PM

May 8 2024 at 9:06 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can Program A (Planning & Policy Implementation) be used towards TOC policies within a Citywide document, such as a Circulation Element of the General Plan?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, Program Area A: Planning & Policy Implementation can be used for city-wide documents such as the ones mentioned in your question. See page 5 of the NOFA for more details about Program A: Planning & Policy Implementation.

37. Multi-Year Funding May 9 2024 at 5:21 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:21 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
If this is a multi-year project for my organization, can we apply to the next round of this grant to supplement the needed project funding?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
See Response to Question #34.

38. Grant Agreement Timeline May 9 2024 at 5:22 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:22 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can you provide an estimate of how much will be the time to process the Grant Agreement with the City so we can input that into the timeline of the project?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
The grant agreement process is planned to conclude approximately one month after final awards are announced. Final Awards are planned to be announced by July 1, 2024.

39. Program Area D Implementation Timeline May 9 2024 at 5:22 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:22 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
For Program Area D, what are the date ranges for when the activations need to occur with this funding?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please reference question #8.

40. Attachment C Location May 9 2024 at 5:27 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:27 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Where can I find Attachment C? I only see the NOFA and Attachment B.
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Attachment C is part of the Notice of Funding Availability PDF document and can be downloaded at the Grant Webpage https://vta.org/TOCgrant

41. Application Deadline May 9 2024 at 5:28 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:28 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Is there a chance to extend the deadline for submission beyond May 22? And if so where or how the applicants will be informed.
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
The application deadline will not be changed. All notifications will be posted on OpenGov. Make sure to click the "Following" button on the OpenGov project page to receive notifications: https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/vta-tod/projects/83311

42. Pre-Application Workshop Recordings May 9 2024 at 5:28 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:28 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Will the online Pre-Application Workshops be recorded?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
The online Pre-Application Workshop recordings are now available to watch on the Grant Website at vta.org/TOCgrant or directly at the VTA YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@SCVTA.

43. Multiple Applications May 9 2024 at 5:31 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:31 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can a local agency submit multiple applications, such as apply for the Planning & Policy Implementation category and another application under Placemaking, Arts, & Activation, or would we only be able to apply under one category?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please reference question #4.

44. Caltrain Station Eligibility May 9 2024 at 5:32 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:32 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Are Caltrain stations and the surrounding area eligible?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please reference question #1. Use the interactive mapping tool at vta.org/TOCgrant to verify the eligibility of your project location.

45. Local Agency Definition May 9 2024 at 5:47 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:47 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What is considered a local public agency?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please reference question #7. See page 2 of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for eligibility criteria.

46. OpenGov Website Direction May 9 2024 at 5:48 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:48 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
How do applicants find the OpenGov website?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Visit vta.org/TOCgrant and navigate to the blue callout on the right side of the website that says "View Grant Application." Click on "Visit Portal" to access the OpenGov website. Once you are on the OpenGov website, create an account, sign-in and click on "Following" in the upper right hand corner of the project page to receive project notifications to your user-registered email address. Creating an account on OpenGov is free and there is no software to download, as it is a browser-based service.

47. CBO Eligibility May 9 2024 at 5:49 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:49 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
We have worked as CBO's with the county for more than 3 years but we are not a non-profit. Do we still qualify to apply?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Refer to page 2 of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for eligibility criteria.

48. Program D Implementation Timeline May 9 2024 at 5:50 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:50 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
For program D would immediate activation of a transit site be allowable? Or is it tied to a timeline of when housing is built at those transit sites
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Program D (see NOFA, Page 6) is intended to fund activities that provide art, activation, and placemaking around existing and planned transit stations as defined in the NOFA. Activities under Program D do not need to be tied to the presence of existing or planned affordable housing.

49. Local Match Requirement May 9 2024 at 5:51 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:51 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Is a match required for nonprofit organizations applying for Program areas B, C, or D?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
A Local Match is only required for Local Agencies. CBOs are not required to provide a Local Match.

50. Event Location Eligibility May 9 2024 at 5:51 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:51 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
If my event is a “festival” a block away from a transit center/light rail station, would it still be eligible?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
See response to question #1. Use the interactive mapping tool at vta.org/TOCgrant to verify the eligibility of your project location. If part of the event is located within one-half mile of a transit center or transit station (as identified in the NOFA), the event would meet the geographic eligibility criteria.

51. MTC Policy Alignment and Program A Implementation Timeline May 9 2024 at 5:52 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:52 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
The MTC TOC policy requires compliance by 2026 Q1. Assuming we are a grantee, and the grant is for this purpose, how soon can a City get funds under Program A. Also, is this a reimbursement agreement or direct funds given to the City?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Payments schedules to grantees will be identified as part of the VTA-Grantee Agreement with each awardee organization/agency.

52. Multiple Applications May 9 2024 at 5:53 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:53 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can an organization apply for multiple grants?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please reference question #24 and #4 for information on submitting more than one application

53. Fiscal Sponsor Eligibility May 9 2024 at 5:54 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:54 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can an organization serve as a fiscal sponsor for other CBO's proposing on this grant, while also submitting their own proposal for a separate grant?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, applicants may submit their own application while also serving as fiscal sponsors for other community-based groups applying for separate projects.

54. Interactive Map May 9 2024 at 5:55 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:55 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Why are some of the shapes on the interactive map not circular?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
The half-mile eligibility area is measured from the outer edges of transit centers and stations, instead of a point in the center. It is not a perfect circle because of the shape of some of the facilities are not circular.

55. Application Technical Assistance May 9 2024 at 5:55 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:55 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Is there going to be technical assistance to help applicants prepare their applications?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
No, there is no one-on-one technical assistance to help grant applicants in preparing individual applications. Please reference the Q&A forum on OpenGov to review responses to all questions received by the May 8, 2024 deadline.

56. Staffing Plan and Volunteers May 9 2024 at 5:56 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:56 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
The application requests that applicants prepare a staffing plan - does that mean we cannot apply if we only use volunteers and do not have staff hired?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
"Staffing" refers to anyone that will be a part of implementing and delivering the project. When the application says staffing, it does not need to be paid/hired personnel, but anyone who will be working on it. Please include any paid staff as well as volunteers.

57. Promotoras and Payment Requirements May 9 2024 at 5:57 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:57 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
For the promotoras, do they need to be employees of the organization? Do they need to be paid? Can they be volunteers?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
If you think it would be beneficial to have payment for promotoras, you may reflect that decision in your application. The Evaluation Panel and Grant Program do not want to see anyone being undervalued or discounted. Make sure that you account for any and all potential costs.

58. Application Word Limit May 9 2024 at 5:58 PM

May 9 2024 at 5:58 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
I've begun to fill out your application. Only about 100 of the 200+ words allowed in a field show up in the form. Do you want us to submit the application in the form? If so, how will you read what we write? I've printed out the form and it only prints what's displayed on the screen.
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please redownload the application and make sure you are using an updated version of a PDF reader. Adobe Acrobat Reader is a free desktop software offered by Adobe, a private software company. Adobe continuously provides new version of the application to include product and security updates. As a result, Adobe recommends downloading and using the latest version. You can download the Adobe Acrobat reader at https://get.adobe.com/reader/.

59. Program Area B May 10 2024 at 8:33 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:33 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
If a non-profit is working on affordable housing at the policy level, would activities around the development of that policy fit in Program Area B?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, non-profits working on any element of affordable housing should apply for Program Area B if the proposed project and organization meet the criteria outlined in the NOFA. See page 7 of the NOFA for information on Applicant Eligibility. See the response to question #1 for project location eligibility information.

60. Bus Routes May 10 2024 at 8:34 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:34 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Are bus route locations eligible for the grant?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Bus routes are not specifically eligible. However, bus stops that are within the one-half mile of transit stations are eligible. Please visit the grant homepage vta.org/TOCgrant. You will be able to access the interactive map. See question #1 for more detail on using the interactive map.

61. Reporting Requirements May 10 2024 at 8:34 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:34 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What will reporting look like? For instance, cadence for staff hours (weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc.) and invoicing.
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
See Attachment A page 6. There will be quarterly reporting within the grantee cohort that will include a summary of moneys expended on eligible activities, and any administrative costs associated with advancement of the project. There is a semi-annual financial reporting requirement as well. The final report will show the project’s implementation, inclusion of an equity initiative, and other major milestones. Reporting requirements will be finalized in the funding agreement. The funding distribution will be determined once the funding agreements are finalized, but the funding disbursement options are: 1) prepayment, 2) periodic payment, 3) task payment, 4) reimbursement (invoicing)

62. For Profit Organizations Eligibility May 10 2024 at 8:35 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:35 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Are for-profit community organizations eligible for the Placemaking/Arts category?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Refer to page 2 of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for eligibility criteria.

63. Implementation Timeline May 10 2024 at 8:36 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:36 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
When would the program need to be implemented?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
See the response to question #8

64. Interactive Map May 10 2024 at 8:42 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:42 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
On the Grant Eligibility map, what do the pink shaded areas mean? Can you confirm that the green circles are the eligible areas for this grant opportunity?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
The pink shaded areas on the Grant Eligibility map are areas designated as Metropolitan Transportation Commission Equity Priority Communities (EPC). Projects are not required to be in an EPC and the EPC map layer is for reference only. The Grant Eligibility mapping tool will prompt the applicant to enter the proposed project's address to see if it qualifies for the grant. The project address should appear within the green area if its eligible.

65. Project Implementation Timeline May 10 2024 at 8:43 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:43 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What is the time period for start and projected end dates for proposed projects?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
See the response to question #8

66. Interactive Map Eligibility May 10 2024 at 8:43 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:43 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
To confirm we are in the eligible area, would we use our office address/location or the sites of the properties that we own?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Use the location/address of the project you are applying for when determining eligibility.

67. Match Requirement May 10 2024 at 8:44 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:44 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Can you please explain the match requirement?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Please reference question #15.

68. Project Location May 10 2024 at 8:44 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:44 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What do I write as an address if my project takes over a few blocks?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
In the Application for Project Address, include the cross streets and nearest transit station. Additional qualifying details about the project location can be described in "Location Descriptions."

69. Viewing map in new tab May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM

May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
How can I expand the eligibility map into a new tab? Can I view it larger?
May 10 2024 at 8:45 AM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Yes, right click on the "Learn More" button, and click “View in a new tab.”

70. Applicants outside of Santa Clara County May 13 2024 at 2:58 PM

May 13 2024 at 2:58 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Does the next phase include other jurisdictions (outside of Santa Clara County)?
May 13 2024 at 3:04 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Jurisdictions outside of Santa Clara County are not eligible to be primary applicants at this time. Jurisdictions outside of Santa Clara County may be a partner to an eligible applicant.

71. Local Agency: Budget Requirement May 13 2024 at 2:59 PM

May 13 2024 at 2:59 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
How do you define "organizational budget" for local agencies? Does it include an entire department's budget or the organizational budget allocated to the project itself to be funded by the grant? We wonder about the rationale for this question in the award determination.
May 13 2024 at 3:04 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
The Organization Budget should be based on the specific funds you estimate will be needed to implement your project successfully. It is not intended to be reflective of an entire department's budget, which would include budgets for other, unrelated projects.

72. Eligibility Map Issues & Eligible Locations May 13 2024 at 3:00 PM

May 13 2024 at 3:00 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
I am unable to open the map on the TOC Grant webpage. We are interested in strengthening the linkages between an urban village and a planned BART station. Are we eligible to apply?
May 13 2024 at 3:04 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
If any portion of your project location is within a half-mile of the transit stations and centers that are listed within the Application document, then the project is eligible to apply. Please reference this link when opening the map to navigate technical difficulties: https://gis.vta.org/portal/apps/experiencebuilder/experience/?id=96751c9f58ff4d6ba6e9f4be6c094640&page=page_0

73. Reporting Requirements May 13 2024 at 3:01 PM

May 13 2024 at 3:01 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What are the reporting requirements?
May 13 2024 at 3:04 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Grantees will be required to provide a quarterly progress report including accounting of actual expenses to date, milestones achieved, and description of completed community engagement activities. Reporting templates will be provided in Exhibit D1 of the Grant Agreement.

74. Fund Disbursement May 13 2024 at 3:01 PM

May 13 2024 at 3:01 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
What is the timeline for fund disbursement?
May 13 2024 at 3:04 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Funds will be disbursed based on the terms agreed to as part of the Grant Agreement. Exhibit C of the Grant Agreement outlines potential disbursement options which could include reimbursement, milestone- or schedule-based installments, or pre-payment depending on the size and scope of the grant.

75. Multiple Applications May 13 2024 at 3:18 PM

May 13 2024 at 3:18 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Is an event that happens twice a year considered two projects, or one? For example, a concert series in the Spring and the Fall. Can I apply for funding for Fall '24 and Spring '25 in two separate applications? Or do I need to pick one?
May 13 2024 at 3:55 PM
VTA Transit Oriented Development
Applicants can only submit one application per project area. Therefore, an applicant can submit one application for one event at a specific location, or can choose to include multiple recurring events in a single application. If an applicant is planning two or more events at different locations, serving different communities, they may submit separate applications for each geographic area or community that the events will serve.

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