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Metro Council, the ruling body of regional government Metro, is taking input on how to spend $22 million on transportation projects around the region.

Every two years, Metro distributes funds received though two federal programs via its regional flexible funding program. The money pays for projects in the Regional Transportation Plan, which are nominated by local agencies. The funds comprise about 4 percent of the money spent on transportation in the region but can be spent on a wider range of projects than typical federal funds.

Previous councils have allocated funds to be spent on bike trails, road improvements and upgrades to reduce emissions from the diesel engines of school buses.

The city of Portland and its three counties are each hosting meetings this month in which they will decide which projects to nominate to Metro Council by Aug. 29. Metro Council will then compile a list, which will go to public comment in September. The final list will be approved by council in December.