Challenges Ahead for Active Transportation Under the BUILD America 250 Act

The recent release of the surface transportation bill, BUILD America 250 Act, by the U.S. House of Representatives’ Transportation & Infrastructure Committee has sparked significant debate regarding its implications for active transportation in America. This legislation, while securing some support for legacy programs, is viewed by many advocates as a missed opportunity to adequately address the pressing needs of modern infrastructure to accommodate walking and cycling.

Kevin Mills, Vice President of Policy at Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC), expressed concerns about the House's approach, suggesting that it fails to prioritize essential investments for interconnected transportation channels necessary for safe, functional travel. The initiative is perceived as falling short in delivering on the community connectivity so crucial for transporting individuals—especially for the 30% of the population who rely on non-motorized forms of transport.

Key Concerns with the New Legislation

One of the most significant revelations in this legislation is the repeal of the Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP), which had previously served as the sole dedicated funding source aimed at bridging gaps in active transportation networks. This funding, initially granted through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), demonstrated an overwhelming demand, with the first funding round oversubscribed by a staggering 40 to 1 ratio, highlighting the urgent need for expanded active transport infrastructure across the country.

Furthermore, while the legacy Transportation Alternatives (TA) program remains operational, the new bill introduces provisions that could lead states to divert funds from active transportation projects, threatening to diminish their effectiveness. Under IIJA, financial transfers from TA were restricted unless states could demonstrate an inadequate demand for funding. This requirement spurred states to fully utilize the program, leading to strategic investments in connectivity. For instance, Texas underwent a significant restructuring of its TA program, prioritizing investments that foster connection, ultimately resulting in oversubscription and revealing the intense demand for accessible walking and biking routes that previously remained unmet.

The Need for Inclusive Funding

Additionally, the introduction of a new funding opportunity known as the Surface Transportation Accelerator Grant (STAG) appears to focus primarily on urban contexts, overlooking rural communities that also benefit significantly from active transport networks. With over a quarter of the nation's developing trail networks serving rural areas, excluding these regions from inclusive planning could exacerbate existing mobility barriers.

Historically, federal, state, and local investments have established a robust foundation for the active transportation system, comprising over 42,500 miles of multiuse trails and providing annual economic contributions exceeding $34 billion. However, current public funding has proven inadequate in addressing the mounting demand for safe walking and biking pathways. With numerous programs consistently oversubscribed, progress is stunted, directly impacting the safety, economic viability, and overall quality of life for communities nationwide.

RTC’s Vision for Future Investments

In light of these challenges, RTC advocates for a comprehensive federal policy agenda with a clear focus on investing in active transportation infrastructure. Their vision emphasizes the necessity to reform policies to prioritize safe, functional pathways for all, ensuring communities can navigate spaces efficiently and safely.

As the nation’s leading trails organization, dedicating itself to creating a network stitched together by trails, RTC urges policymakers to reconsider the implications of the BUILD America 250 Act in the context of active transportation needs. The future of walking and biking infrastructure in America hinges on the ability to secure adequate funding and champion policies that substantively enhance connectivity for all citizens.

For those wishing to follow RTC’s progress and endeavors related to active transport advocacy, visit railstotrails.org or connect with them on social media @railstotrails.