Innovative Grants Promote Safer and More Economically Sustainable Active Transportation in America
On January 8, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) unveiled the recipients of its first-ever funding round for the Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP). This initiative is designed to significantly increase the number and quality of active transportation networks, thereby promoting safer walking and biking routes across American towns and cities. As Kevin Mills, Vice President of Policy at Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC), highlighted, connectivity is crucial for maximizing the potential of these networks, friendly to the environment and beneficial for communities.
The initial funding round of ATIIP allocated nearly $45 million to projects, an amount that corresponds to an overwhelming demand from communities across the nation. Over 350 applicants vied for a collective $1.8 billion in funding, showcasing a staggering oversubscription rate of 40 to 1. Ultimately, a mere 4% of the projects submitted were awarded funding, with 14 projects in total chosen for their potential to enhance transportation options.
These selected projects span a diverse array of geographic areas, ranging from rural towns to urban centers. DOT recognized the importance of strategically investing in active transportation infrastructure, as these projects can effectively fill critical gaps in existing networks while leveraging the capabilities of already available infrastructure. For instance, in Pennsylvania, a notable grant of $13.7 million will facilitate the completion of a significant 39-mile multi-use trail that connects Pottstown to Southwest Philadelphia, thereby enhancing the Circuit Trails network.
Similarly, in Bowling Green, Kentucky, a grant of $1.2 million will be used for the planning and design of a critical connection in the regional greenway network, allowing community members to easily access schools, parks, shopping centers, and other essential services. Moreover, the need for such funding initiatives has never been clearer given the astounding demand for the first ATIIP funding round. Mills emphasized the undeniable return on investment (ROI) of these projects, while urging Congress to allocate full funding through the appropriations process for fiscal years 2025 and 2026.
He noted that the ATIIP program not only promotes safe routes but also has the potential to generate billions in economic impact, improving overall public health and safety. With more than 150 active transportation networks currently in development across the country—spanning every state—it is evident that Americans are investing in the future of their communities. As half of U.S. residents now live in areas where active transportation projects are underway, the urgency for larger and more dedicated funding opportunities cannot be overstated.
The ATIIP program is celebrated as a groundbreaking approach to federal funding, uniquely focused on planning and developing connected transportation networks. As the only federal program dedicated to this critical area, it has been authorized by Congress. Ongoing advocacy from RTC, Congressional supporters, and partners across the country aims to secure the necessary funding to ensure these initiatives come to fruition.
Rails to Trails Conservancy, the nation’s largest trails organization with a dedicated grassroots community exceeding one million, is at the forefront of this movement. The organization's mission is to build connectivity through trails, transforming public spaces into safe environments for walking, cycling, and outdoor activities. By visiting their website or engaging with them on social media, individuals can learn more about their efforts to enhance transportation accessibility across the nation.
In summary, the first round of ATIIP grants stands as a significant milestone for advancing active transportation infrastructure in America. The overwhelming demand and strategic investments in these projects signal a collective movement toward safer, more connected communities, ultimately benefiting the economy and enhancing public health.
The initial funding round of ATIIP allocated nearly $45 million to projects, an amount that corresponds to an overwhelming demand from communities across the nation. Over 350 applicants vied for a collective $1.8 billion in funding, showcasing a staggering oversubscription rate of 40 to 1. Ultimately, a mere 4% of the projects submitted were awarded funding, with 14 projects in total chosen for their potential to enhance transportation options.
These selected projects span a diverse array of geographic areas, ranging from rural towns to urban centers. DOT recognized the importance of strategically investing in active transportation infrastructure, as these projects can effectively fill critical gaps in existing networks while leveraging the capabilities of already available infrastructure. For instance, in Pennsylvania, a notable grant of $13.7 million will facilitate the completion of a significant 39-mile multi-use trail that connects Pottstown to Southwest Philadelphia, thereby enhancing the Circuit Trails network.
Similarly, in Bowling Green, Kentucky, a grant of $1.2 million will be used for the planning and design of a critical connection in the regional greenway network, allowing community members to easily access schools, parks, shopping centers, and other essential services. Moreover, the need for such funding initiatives has never been clearer given the astounding demand for the first ATIIP funding round. Mills emphasized the undeniable return on investment (ROI) of these projects, while urging Congress to allocate full funding through the appropriations process for fiscal years 2025 and 2026.
He noted that the ATIIP program not only promotes safe routes but also has the potential to generate billions in economic impact, improving overall public health and safety. With more than 150 active transportation networks currently in development across the country—spanning every state—it is evident that Americans are investing in the future of their communities. As half of U.S. residents now live in areas where active transportation projects are underway, the urgency for larger and more dedicated funding opportunities cannot be overstated.
The ATIIP program is celebrated as a groundbreaking approach to federal funding, uniquely focused on planning and developing connected transportation networks. As the only federal program dedicated to this critical area, it has been authorized by Congress. Ongoing advocacy from RTC, Congressional supporters, and partners across the country aims to secure the necessary funding to ensure these initiatives come to fruition.
Rails to Trails Conservancy, the nation’s largest trails organization with a dedicated grassroots community exceeding one million, is at the forefront of this movement. The organization's mission is to build connectivity through trails, transforming public spaces into safe environments for walking, cycling, and outdoor activities. By visiting their website or engaging with them on social media, individuals can learn more about their efforts to enhance transportation accessibility across the nation.
In summary, the first round of ATIIP grants stands as a significant milestone for advancing active transportation infrastructure in America. The overwhelming demand and strategic investments in these projects signal a collective movement toward safer, more connected communities, ultimately benefiting the economy and enhancing public health.
Topics Other）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.