INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Transportation has announced $100.8 million in federal transportation funding is being awarded to 54 cities, towns, and counties in rural areas of the state.

The purpose of the funds is to invest in road and bridge improvements, as well as sidewalk and trail projects. Combined with local funds, INDOT says nearly $125 million is being invested in infrastructure.

INDOT says communities must pay at least 20% in local matching funds and meet other federal requirements to receive federal funding. For the latest round of funding, rural communities will design, develop and purchase land for projects that will be bid beginning in 2025.