Municipal Assistance Program (MAP)

The Municipal Assistance Program (MAP) is a state-level grant initiative administered by the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services (GCLGS) within the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). The program operates under the authority of the Administrative Code of 1929, as amended, which empowers DCED to facilitate improved local governance, promote community development, and support cooperative local government functions across Pennsylvania. The purpose of the MAP is to help local governments plan and implement services, improvements, and development in a manner that is efficient and effectively managed. It provides funding for two primary types of activities: shared service initiatives and community planning projects. The program aims to advance DCED’s mission of fostering community and economic growth while improving the quality of life for Pennsylvania residents. Key principles guiding the funding decisions include fostering partnerships, driving measurable results, encouraging innovative approaches, and promoting long-term commitments to sustainable outcomes. Eligibility for MAP funding is open to all Pennsylvania municipalities, including cities, boroughs, towns, townships, home-rule municipalities, and counties. Public or quasi-public organizations authorized to act on behalf of one or more municipalities may also apply. Shared service activities require participation by two or more municipalities, while community planning activities may involve single or multiple municipalities, with a preference for multi-municipal partnerships. The program does not support activities such as construction or renovation of buildings, general administration costs of the grant, or expenses related to lobbying or regulatory fines. Applicants may request funding for shared service projects involving regionalization, consolidation, or shared capacity initiatives, including public safety, code enforcement, and public works. Community planning activities eligible for funding encompass the development and implementation of comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, and transportation improvement plans, among others. Transit Revitalization Investment District (TRID) Planning Studies are also eligible. The program typically funds up to 50% of the project cost, with a required minimum of 25% match from non-state sources unless exceptions are approved for distressed municipalities or those undergoing structural changes. Applications must be submitted online through DCED’s Single Application system, and paper submissions are not accepted. The application must include a detailed project narrative, a budget with a supporting narrative, resolutions from participating municipal governing bodies, and, for planning projects, a letter of comment from the county planning agency. The program operates with an open application window, allowing submissions at any time, with funding decisions made based on fund availability. Evaluation criteria include project need, quality, local commitment, funding adequacy, past performance, and the financial status of the applicant municipalities. For further assistance, applicants are encouraged to contact the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services at 888-223-6837 or 717-787-8158, or via email at ra-dced-kcp@pa.gov. Preliminary discussions with GCLGS staff are recommended prior to submission to ensure alignment with program goals and to explore additional funding opportunities. Funding decisions are communicated in writing to all applicants, with the review process conducted in accordance with program guidelines and available funding.