Federal Funding for US Bike Paths Faces Potential Elimination in New Transportation bill
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A looming decision in Congress threatens to dismantle recent progress in cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, as a new transportation bill could eliminate all federal funding for bike paths and walking trails. Cyclists and advocates across the United States are mobilizing to urge their representatives to protect these vital investments.
The potential shift in funding priorities comes as Representative Sam Graves (R-MO), chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, has signaled a return to “conventional infrastructure” projects. “It’s going to be a traditional highway bill – that means building roads and bridges, laying asphalt, pouring concrete…,” Graves stated this week. “We’re not going to be spending money on murals and train stations or bike paths or walking paths. We’re going to spend money on traditional infrastructure, that’s roads and bridges.”
league of American Bicyclists Leads the Opposition
The League of American Bicyclists (LAB) is spearheading the effort to resist the proposed changes, warning that the new bill could result in “zero federal funding for bicycling and walking through 2031.” The organization is actively encouraging US riders to contact their representatives and voice their opposition.
“If Rep. Graves has his way and the next transportation bill is a ‘traditional highway bill’ that could mean zero federal funding for bicycling and walking through 2031,” the LAB stated on its website. “Rep. Graves needs to hear that’s unacceptable from every Member of Congress. He’ll only hear that if your Member of Congress hears it from you.” The LAB emphasizes that representatives are accountable to their constituents, not just to lawmakers from Missouri, where Rep. Graves represents.
Recent Gains at Risk
This potential reversal comes after a period of significant investment in cycling and pedestrian infrastructure. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 spurred a boost in federal funding, creating programs like the Reconnecting Communities pilot program and the safe Streets and Roads for All program.Furthermore,funding for Transport Alternatives,the largest federal source of money for bike paths,increased by 60%.
These gains now appear to be in jeopardy. The proposed bill threatens to undo the progress made in creating safer, more accessible transportation options for cyclists and pedestrians nationwide.
A History of Funding Fluctuations
The current debate echoes past policy shifts. Under President donald Trump, the US government reportedly withdrew $1.1 trillion in funding previously earmarked for bike paths and pedestrian projects.
Why is this happening? Representative Sam Graves (R-MO), chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, is advocating for a transportation bill focused solely on “traditional infrastructure” – roads and bridges – effectively eliminating funding for bike paths and walking trails.
Who is involved? Key players include Representative Sam Graves, the League of American Bicyclists (LAB), cyclists and advocates nationwide, and members of Congress.
What is at stake? The potential elimination of all federal funding for bike paths and walking trails through 2031,reversing gains made by the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Programs like Transport Alternatives, Reconnecting Communities, and Safe Streets and Roads for All are at risk.
How did it end? as of this report, the outcome remains uncertain. The League of american Bicyclists is leading a nationwide effort to mobilize opposition and urge representatives to protect funding
