Rails to Trails 2010 Campaign
The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) is a non-profit organization dedicated dedicated to promoting active transportation in general and, specifically, to turning unused railbeds into multiuse recreation trails. Efforts are underway across the US to create a nationwide network of trails that will result in healthier communities and healthier people.
The RTC’s 2010 Campaign for Active Transportation is working to build on the success of the Nonmotorized Transportation Pilot Program. This program gave four communities; Columbia, MO, Minneapolis, MN; Marin County, CA; and Sheboygan County, WI $22 million each in 2006 to build and promote a bicycle and pedestrian network. Columbia’s project is called Getabout Columbia. The RTC 2010 Campaign would like to see the pilot program expanded in 2010. Their goal is to increase the federal investment in active transportation twenty-fold in the next reauthorization, through dozens of communities advocating for change on the local and national levels.
It is important for Columbia and PedNet to participate in this advocacy campaign in order to receive a renewal, and possible doubling to $50 million for 2010-2015, of the Nonmotorized Transportation Pilot Project funding. Without this funding, it will be impossible for Columbia to continue the active transportation infrastructure improvements and educational programming at the current level.
Check back soon, as PedNet will be coordinating an advocacy campaign on this issue.
