The need for dedicated bike/ped funding: why eligibility is not enough

As we reported last month, Representative John Mica (R-FL), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, recently introduced an outline of his proposed transportation bill. The proposal eliminates all dedicated funding for bicycling and walking – programs such as transportation enhancements, recreational trails and safe routes to schools program – and maintains “eligibility” for these activities only if states choose to spend their funds on these kinds of activities and these meet [undetermined] performance measures and are in the national interest.

The League of American Bicyclists and America Bikes has written an excellent white paper that makes the case for dedicated bicycle and pedestrian funding in the federal transportation bill. This white paper outlines eight key arguments for why dedicate funding for bicycling and walking is essential and "Eligibility Isn't Enough." All the evidence of the past 20 years and beyond suggests that mere eligibility is insufficient.

I encourage you to click here to read this excellent paper:"Why Eligibility Isn’t Enough.” Thanks, Darren, for your great work!