Congress Urged to Enhance Walking and Biking Infrastructure Nationwide

Opportunity for Change: Surface Transportation Law Extended to Enhance Walking and Biking Infrastructure

WASHINGTON—With the recent signing of a continuing resolution, the expiration of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has been postponed from September 30 to December 11, offering lawmakers a new window to reconsider priorities for the next surface transportation law.

The Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC), a leading advocacy group for active transportation, views this extension as a critical moment for Congress to focus on infrastructure that encourages safe walking and biking routes nationwide. The RTC is advocating for a robust agenda to enhance the Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program, which is essential for connecting trail networks across various communities.

"This continuing resolution creates a new opportunity for Congress to dig deeper and deliver a surface transportation bill that meets the needs of communities across the American landscape," said Kevin Mills, RTC’s vice president of policy. Mills highlighted that safe trails for walking and biking are crucial for community quality, economic benefits, and reducing congestion.

Since early 2025, the RTC has mobilized nearly 50,000 messages to Congress, illustrating the positive impact of connected walking and biking infrastructure. Earlier this year, a coalition of nearly 1,200 small businesses, elected officials, and organizations urged Congress to support federal programs dedicated to trails and active transportation (read the letter).

Mills noted, "The vast majority of Americans support trails. Support for investments in connected walking and biking infrastructure is widely supported by Republican, Democratic and Independent voters alike. The benefits of making it safer and easier to walk and bike eclipse partisan politics."

RTC’s policy agenda focuses on enhancing the Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program to strengthen the nation’s active transportation system. Despite federal, state, and local investments establishing over 42,500 miles of multiuse trails, the demand for safe walking and biking pathways continues to outpace available funding.

Contact: Patricia Brooks, patricia@matchmapmedia.com, 202.351.1757

The Rails to Trails Conservancy is committed to creating a nationwide network of trails to promote outdoor activity and connectivity. Learn more at railstotrails.org.