USDOT Grants Bring New Life to Safe Walking and Biking Projects Across America

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has unveiled its latest round of grant funding aimed at improving safe and connected regional walking and biking routes. These grants underscore a significant and growing demand for enhanced active transportation options across the United States, and they mark an opportunity to transform numerous communities throughout the nation.

According to Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC)—the nation's largest organization advocating for trails, walking, and biking—the latest federal multimodal transportation grants demonstrate the profound impact that well-constructed trails and active transportation networks can have on local economies and community well-being. Kevin Mills, RTC’s vice president of policy, noted that the current trail system contributes over $34 billion to the economy every year. By further connecting these trails, the potential economic impact could increase dramatically, making communities not only safer but also more enjoyable places to live.

A Growing Trend in Transportation Funding

The recent announcements from the USDOT included an impressive total of $1.3 billion in RAISE grants and another $544.6 million in Reconnecting Communities Program grants. An analysis revealed that more than three-quarters of the funded projects specifically address the critical needs of pedestrians and cyclists. Significantly, 20 percent of the funding—exceeding $362 million—focused solely on projects aimed at developing walking and biking infrastructures.

For instance, a noteworthy investment of $20.8 million will facilitate the development of a 6.2-mile multiuse trail in Martinsburg, West Virginia. This initiative opens new avenues for active transportation, linking neighborhoods with transit options and downtown areas. Similarly, in Nebraska, $2 million is earmarked for extending the Cowboy Trail into downtown Norfolk, enhancing local mobility while also potentially boosting trail tourism in the region.

Montana is also benefitting from USDOT support with $6 million aimed at planning projects that connect the Great American Rail-Trail, which spans from the Montana-Idaho border to the Continental Divide. This development aligns with RTC's vision of creating a cross-country trail network that supports active transportation.

Other awards highlight the pivotal role trails play in community revitalization. In Pennsylvania, a planning study worth $2 million will assess the potential for improving the Richmond Industrial Track for safer walking and biking access in Philadelphia’s Kensington area. Meanwhile, $1.6 million will support the planning of a 7.2-mile trail along an active rail line in Wisconsin, creating better mobility for residents in the Milwaukee area.

Invest in the Future

Mills stresses that creating safe walking and biking infrastructure is essential for promoting healthier, safer, and more robust communities. The overwhelming need for funding reveals a strong desire among Americans for active transportation solutions. To fulfill this vision, it is crucial to advocate for reliable and dedicated funding programs that specifically target these initiatives.

As demonstrated by these grants, a multitude of trail and active transportation networks are now underway across the nation, with projects in every state. Approximately half of all Americans reside in areas where active transportation networks are being developed. However, many communities will struggle to realize their infrastructure goals without significant grants and sustainable funding sources dedicated to active transportation.

The new Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program is designed to address this gap. This innovative federal initiative is the first of its kind to offer dedicated funding for the planning and construction of comprehensive active transportation networks and long-distance trails. While funding relies on annual appropriations, advocates like RTC and congressional partners are working tirelessly to ensure full financial support for this essential program.

In summary, the active transportation landscape across America is undergoing a transformative phase through these grants. The USDOT's continued investment in safe walking and biking infrastructural projects is paving the way for a future where active transportation is not just a luxury but a realized right for all citizens. By prioritizing these initiatives, we are stepping towards healthier, more vibrant communities for generations to come.