ARM 18.4.302. ELIGIBILITY

(1) Any local government in Montana may apply for BLB funds for OSBs and non-NBI structures it owns. (2) Local governments must complete and submit the BLB funds application using the department’s designated online portal, which begins accepting applications on the third Tuesday in October of each year at 10:00 a.m., with funds distributed by June 30 of the same state fiscal year. (3) The application must include the following information: (a) location of the OSB or non-NBI structure, including: (i) the MDT bridge ID number (if applicable); (ii) the road or facility carried; and (iii) the feature crossed by the OSB or non-NBI structure; (b) a description of the project scope, purpose, and need, including an explanation of the type of replacement or repair, and the impact on the existing load posting, if applicable; (c) the total project cost, including a breakdown showing the costs associated with development, engineering, and construction; (d) the amount of BLB funds requested; and (e) the amount of local matching funds the local government will contribute. (4) If an application is incomplete the department may request additional information to ensure the application meets the requirements of 60-2-212, MCA. (5) A local government shall not receive more than $1 million of BLB funds per fiscal year. (6) The local government must administer the project. (7) Joint applications count as an award to each participating local government. (8) Unsuccessful applicants may submit another application if BLB funds remain available in the same fiscal year. (9) BLB funds shall only be used for OSBs and non-NBI structures owned by the local government. (10) BLB funds may only be used for: (a) a new OSB replacing an existing OSB; (b) a non-NBI structure replacing an existing OSB; (c) a new OSB replacing an existing non-NBI structure; or (d) repairing an OSB such that the existing load posting is improved.