Representative to introduce amendment to re-fund Transportation Enhancements

You may remember that a U.S. House committee recently passed a version of the transportation appropriations bill that completely removed the "Transportation Enhancements" program. Enhancements is the main federal funding mechanism for bicycle and pedestrian-related projects--everything from bike lanes, "share the road" signs, hazard mitigation, and bridge access to rail trails and sidewalks.

The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy reports a new development:

Fond du Lac, WI - I am thrilled to say that Rep. Tom Petri (R-WI) has agreed to sponsor, along with other House members, an amendment to strike Section 114 from the transportation appropriations bill (H.R.2989) when it comes to the full House of Representatives in early September.

The effect of this amendment, if successful, would be to restore full funding for Transportation Enhancements activities.

Our job now is to go back to Representatives and ask them to support the amendment which will be sponsored by Petri plus others. We also owe thanks to Rep. John Olver (D-MA) for his leadership, along with the other Appropriations Committee members who voted the right way in July.

More details will follow when available. Again, please continue to relay any feedback from Congressional offices to Ken Rosenfeld at: rtckenr@transact.org

Please visit RTC's web site for additional information and materials


Thank you, and let's go!
Marianne Fowler
Sr. Vice President of Programs
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy