New federal legislation introduced for bike/ped projects funding
The League of American Bicyclists has reported that new legislation has been introduced in the Senate to increase funding under the Transportation Alternatives program (TAP) which apportions federal funds to state governments for bicycle and pedestrian facilities, Safe Routes to School projects, and recreational trails.
Specifically, the bill would make several changes in keeping with recent Federal Highway Transportation funds. The changes to TA would enable local project delivery to be implemented more efficiently and effectively, giving constituents the biggest payoff on the federal investment in TA. The bill will allow states additional necessary flexibility, including the ability to use up to five percent of TA funds for technical and engineering assistance. Technical assistance is critical to strengthen local governments’ capacity to submit strong project applications and implement awards. Other changes would help all communities participate and benefit from the program, including expanding eligibility for smaller Metropolitan Planning Organizations.
Learn more about S.1098 here and take a moment to ask your senators to support the bill that will make biking and walking better in our community.
Reference: https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/1098