The document provides guidance to help identify projects and project enhancements that may be funded under the Refuge Roads program (RRP) category. The basic eligibility requirements were established by the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) and modified by Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU). The legislation is codified in Title 23 - United States Code (23 USC). Section 204 of 23 USC requires that funds made available for refuge roads shall be used only to pay the cost of:
A) Maintenance and improvements of refuge roads.
B) Maintenance and improvement of eligible enhancement projects noted below that are located in or adjacent to wildlife refuges:
1) Adjacent vehicular parking areas,
2) Interpretive signaage,
3) Provisions for pedestrians and bicycles and
4) Roadside rest areas including sanitary and water facilities
C) Administrative costs associated with such maintenance and improvements.
Examples of eligible items are included in the Appendix.
The construction of new roads is not authorized.
Title 23 USC 202(e) requires that the funds be distributed base upon relative need of the various refuges. In order to establish priorities, Title 23 USC 204(a)(6) requires that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) develop and adopt by rule, safety, bridge, pavement, and congestion management systems as appropriate.
