CAI PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The  Compact Authorization Investment (CAI) program funds local transportation projects for communities within the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission's 140-mile jurisdiction.  The preponderance of grants awarded under this unique partnering program have gone to communities that host a Commission bridge and encounter traffic impacts associated with those facilities.  Projects eligible to receive CAI funding include initiatives aimed at improving a respective community's safety and traffic flow.

• A PDF file of completed, under-construction, and proposed CAI projects is available for viewing here.

Once the Commission awards a community with a CAI grant, the resulting funded project is managed by the local community. The Commission, however, continues an important accountability function with each project, ensuring that the public funding is used for strictly transportation-related purposes and is properly spent.

The Commission recognizes that there are both benefits and burdens for communities which host Commission bridges. By providing grants to host communities for important local transportation projects, the Commission helps to alleviate some of the burdens for our community partners.

As of March 2010, almost $43 million in CAI grants had been awarded to 33 diverse river communities in New Jersey and Pennsylvania to fund a wide range of projects aimed at reducing congestion, improving traffic flow and promoting vehicular and pedstrian safety.  These important projects will improve conditions for local residents as well as the thousands of customers who use the Commission's 20 bridges daily.

CAI-funded enhancements will help to make for a better travel experience between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, as well as improve the quality of life for Delaware River communities. The residual benefits of these grants are improved traffic conditions and easier access to local businesses, recreation areas and tourist sites.

Examples of appropriate projects that are considered for funding under the CAI program include:

• Installation or upgrades to traffic signalization around Commission facilities;
• Road widening in areas affected by or affecting Commission crossings;
• Bicycle or pedestrian paths leading up to Commission facilities;
• Park-and-ride facilities; and
• Safety lighting

The CAI program is one aspect of the Commission's overall commitment to its customers and host communities.