Action Alert

The Equine Land Conservation Resource wants you to take action now.

Equine Land Conservation Resource
February 1, 2012

The Equine Land Conservation Resource wants you to take action now.

On Thursday, February 2, 2012, the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee's "Transportation Reauthorization Proposal," will be considered in the markup of "The American Energy & Infrastructure Jobs Act" House Bill (currently H.R.7). 
 
This Bill is a wholesale reform of federal surface transportation programs, eliminating all earmarks, including the requirement for federal set-asides such as Transportation Enhancements, including the RTP (Recreational Trails Program), and Safe Routes to Schools, that have provided the majority of trail, walking, and bicycling funding in the United States.
 
The bill could be voted on by the Committee this week.  Before that happens, there is a great need for you to contact your representative to express your support for continued funding.
 
Per an Action Alert from American Trails, here is a summary of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee's "Transportation Reauthorization Proposal, plus links to learn more and how to take action! 
 
How To Take Action

There is strength in numbers and we need to present a unified voice for trails, to tell their story, to present their endless benefits, and to make the case for funding them. We urge you to contact your Representative and stress the importance of dedicated funding for Transportation Enhancements and Safe Routes to School, including the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) -- essential programs that make trails and active transportation possible and that are vital to your local efforts.

1. See below for an example support letter.
2. Attend the live webcast of the markup at transportation.house.gov, on Thursday, February 2, 2012; 9:00 a.m. EST, 2167 Rayburn House Office Building.
3. Please see if your member of Congress is on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee.
   
   If your Representative is on the Committee, please call or email their office ASAP and ask them to preserve dedicated funding for these critical trail and bike/ped programs.
   
   If your Representative isn't on the Committee, their support is still vital! Please remind them of local projects that have benefited their District. Ask them to encourage T & I Committee members to preserve these programs. Also, they will have a vote when the bill goes before the full House.
   
4. Contact your Representative by visiting this website here.
5. Spread the word through your networks!

Talking Points

• Funding spent on trails, bike/ped facilities, parks, and outdoor recreation is a sound investment in the country's economy.
• Bicycling and walking make up 12 percent of all trips, but only 1.5 percent of federal funding.
• One-quarter of children's traffic deaths happen when they are walking or bicycling and are struck by cars. Safe Routes to School funds help ensure funding for critical sidewalks, crosswalks, and safety infrastructure to protect children and prevent unnecessary deaths.
• The more bicycles on the road; the fewer cars needed -- resulting in less congestion, better air quality, and reduced road repair work needed.
• The health of our children, as well as our cities, will depend on expanding transportation choices and preserving trails, open space, parks and places for recreation.

Read more about the benefits of trails and find talking points to help you make the case for trails and bike/ped facilities on the American Trails website.

Check the American Trails "Supporting Trails" webpage often for the latest news regarding Reauthorization.