Spring means more people hitting biking and hiking trails. But trail advocates say a Trump administration review of grants made under President Biden puts active transportation projects at risk.
Trail advocates are expressing concerns that the Trump administration's policies are jeopardizing active transportation projects across the United States. According to a report by NPR, the administration's proposed budget cuts and regulatory changes are threatening funding for bike paths, pedestrian walkways, and other initiatives aimed at promoting healthier and more sustainable modes of transportation. Advocates argue that these projects not only improve public health and reduce carbon emissions but also boost local economies by attracting tourists and enhancing community livability. The article highlights specific examples, such as the potential loss of funding for the East Coast Greenway, a 3,000-mile trail connecting cities from Maine to Florida, and the impact on smaller community projects that rely on federal support. Critics of the administration's approach fear that without continued investment, the progress made in developing a national network of trails and active transportation infrastructure could be significantly set back.