May is National Bike Month, connections to transportation sought
The Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) has issued a grant solicitation for new infrastructure projects that improve access and safety for bicyclists and pedestrians. In 2015, awards totaled nearly $5.1 million for construction and planning projects throughout the state.
“Bicycle and pedestrian projects can help connect existing modes of transportation,” said VTrans Bicycle and Pedestrian Program Manager Jon Kaplan. “Existing transit connections, such as bus and rail service and park and rides, can be more easily accessed if safe options are available for bicyclists and pedestrians. Better access to the system can stimulate economic development in our downtowns and improve public health.”
The VTrans Bicycle and Pedestrian Program improves access and safety for bicyclists and pedestrians through the planning, design and construction of infrastructure projects. The program improves transportation options for commuters, visitors to the state, and those seeking recreational uses.
According to the Alliance for Biking and Walking’s 2016 benchmarking report on bicycling and walking in the U.S., Vermont ranks third in the nation for percent of commuters who bike or walk to work and third in per capita spending on bicycle/pedestrian projects. Vermont and Alaska tie for the lowest number of bicycle and pedestrian fatalities in the country.
May is National Bike Month and VTrans is working to develop safe and convenient connections between transportation modes that allow better access to the state’s transportation network. One recent success is Amtrak’s Vermonter line, which launched carry-on bike service on May 1 between St. Albans and Washington, D.C., improving the connection of rail and bicycle modes.
To learn more about the VTrans 2016 Bicycle and Pedestrian Program Guide and Application, visit vtrans.vermont.gov and look under the “Spotlight” heading.
Applications must be received by 1 p.m., Friday, July 15. A pre-application training webinar, available through vtrans.webex.com, will be offered on Tuesday, May 24, 2016 and Thursday, May 26, 2016. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to participate.
For more information about the 2016 Bicycle and Pedestrian program or other VTrans initiatives related to bicycling and walking, contact Jon Kaplan at 802-828-0059.
