Federal Complete Streets Policy

A federal complete streets policy would ensure that ALL transportation projects built with federal dollars would be required to accomodate bicyclists, pedestrians, the elderly, and much more. 

A Senate bill was introduced in March by Senator Tom Harkin, and a House bill will be introduced very soon by Congresswoman Doris Matsui. Your help is needed to build support for both of these bills!

Call or write to your Senator or Representative today! Download the letters below, and be sure to include why this legislation is important for your community. Check the existing policies chart (PDF) from the National Complete Streets Coalition to find a local policy to mention.

Here are four things you can do:

1. Call your in-district office to set up a meeting.

2. Call your member in DC and ask to speak to the staffer working on transportation. Talking points (doc) to get you started.

3. Fax a letter to your member's office:

Senate Letter

House Letter

Contact info to reach your representatives

4. Spread the word! Tell others about this federal action and how their support will make an impact!

The bills were introduced to ensure that all users of the transportation system, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users as well as children, older individuals, and individuals with disabilities, are able to travel safely and conveniently on streets and highways.

Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program

Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance (RTCA) is a program of the National Park Service. RTCA staff provides technical assistance to community groups and local, state, and federal government agencies to develop trails and greenways,
conserve rivers, and preserve open spaces. For the past decade, RTCA funding has remained flat—even falling behind the rate of inflation. Congress should restore and increase the funding of the RTCA program, and support a budget of $10.1 million for 2007.

• National Park Service RTCA website.
• 2006 RTCA projects (pdf).
• House Dear Colleague letter supporting RTCA.
• Senate Dear Colleague letter (pdf) supporting RTCA.
• Contact Congress to support the RTCA program.

For additional information about the Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance program, contact Rich Dolesh, Chair of the Rivers and Trails Coalition, at 202-887-0290.

Conserve by Bike

The 2005 Energy Policy Act (PL 109-58) signed into law by President Bush on August 8, 2005 authorizes a $6.2 million program to study the energy impact of shifting car trips to bicycle trips in up to ten communities. Congress should appropriate funding to implement the study, which will be managed by the Secretary of Transportation.

• Representative Earl Blumenauer's (D-OR) position.
• House Dear Colleague letter supporting Conserve by Bike.
• Contact Congress letter supporting Conserve by Bike.