Recreational Trails in Jeopardy
Do you know what the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is? It is a small component of the transportation bill that is up for reauthorization in 2009. Why is it important? RTP funds projects and programs that support motorized and non-motorized trails all over the country. From trail building and restoration projects to education programs such as Tread trainer, the program is vital to keeping the outdoors accessible.
in a recent address from the Transportation Secretary Mary Peters, she singled out recreational trails.
“Our plan also will reform the nation’s transportation programs. We consolidate the 102 various transportation programs that have sprouted up over the past two decades. These programs dilute the effects of federal funsing by forcing state and local officials to fund projects such as recreational trails, while projects that would make a difference for commuters languish.”
The new reform plan shows no evidence to support recreational trails.
This is how much these programs dilute your projects that “make a difference.” Total 2008 RTP Budget = $80 million; 1 Mile of Interstate Highway = $25 million (Source: Americans for Responsible Recreation Access)
If you care about the trails you ride, hike, or bike you should be interested. RTP funds are available to local, state and federa; land managers for projects that might not otherwise be funded. When the debate begins on Capital Hill in 2009, let your representatives and congressional canidates know that you support recreational trails. And be sure to take the time to learn more.
To learn more about the new transportation plan and to comment on it, go to www.fightgridlocknow.gov.
To learn more about issues related to trails, go to www.americantrails.org.
(Content provided by TreadLightly!, visit them at www.treadlightly.org)
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