WASHINGTON (BRAIN) — More money for bike lanes, trail construction and climate change reduction will be available when President Joe Biden signs into law the nearly $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Congress finally passed the package Friday that awaits Biden's signature. It calls for $11 billion of federal funding for transportation safety, including bicyclists and pedestrians. The second part of Biden's economic package, the Build Back Better Act that proposes e-bike and bicycle commuter tax benefits, is still being debated in Congress.
“We’re pleased to see Congress and the administration advance billions of new dollars for bike lanes, trails and safer streets with the (act),” said Jenn Dice, PeopleForBikes president and CEO. “Partnered with the Build Back Better Act, these packages are poised to reduce our nation’s reliance on carbon emissions, enhance equitable mobility and address the continued demand for safe, connected places to bike.”
The infrastructure bill includes:
- An increase in funding for the Transportation Alternatives Program by 60%, with subsequent annual increases. The program is the largest source of federal dollars for bike projects like protected bike lanes, trails, and multi-use paths. The funding is currently limited to $850 million annually, and the bill would increase the program to $1.38 billion in 2022 and up to $1.48 billion in 2026.
- A requirement for all states to develop standards for Complete Streets, a policy and design approach to ensure users of all ages and abilities have safe and convenient access.
- A vulnerable road user assessment to determine how dangerous roads are for people outside of cars.
- Inclusion of the model three-class e-bike definitions.
The act also provides $1 billion to redesign neighborhoods divided by highways and other infrastructure.
