Are local, tribal, BIA or county road system projects eligible for federal grant programs?

It depends on the grant. The NOFO will indicate the eligible road classifications and/or projects. In general, however, if a road/project is not eligible for regular federal aid, it is unlikely it will be eligible under USDOT/FHWA grant programs. There may be grant opportunities specific to local, tribal, BIA or county road systems (visit grants.gov for available opportunities).

Can my agency be a direct recipient of the grant or does ADOT need to administer the grant funded project?

It depends on the grant. The NOFO will indicate specific requirements and if awardees can be direct recipients or not. Some grants require that ADOT administer projects on the non-CA (Certification Acceptance) applicant’s behalf. Most grant funds are federal aid and are bound by applicable requirements and processes specific to the NOFO.