Many states have made significant investments in trail and active transportation planning to guide and coordinate the development of their trail networks. When actively used, these plans can guide strategic investments, unlock funding opportunities, and foster cross-agency collaboration, turning vision into reality.  In this session, our presenters shared strategies for creating comprehensive plans, building partnerships, […]

Join Rails to Trails Conservancy to learn more about, “State DOT Engagement: Relationship-Building and Advocacy.” During this webinar, RTC policy staff and featured guests discussed the importance of building relationships with your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) when advocating transportation policy change at the federal level. This session explored the connection between the work of […]

The Maryland State Transportation Trails Strategic Plan has been developed collaboratively by the Maryland Department of Transportation, the Department of Natural Resources, state agency partners, stakeholders, and the public to strengthen the transportation trails network across the state, guide project selection for shared use paths, and offer municipalities and trail advocates tools to overcome common […]

The Arizona 2025 Trails Plan guides the acquisition, development, management, and resource allocation for both non-motorized and motorized trails throughout Arizona. It also helps determine the distribution of grant funding from the federal non-motorized and motorized Recreational Trails Program, the state’s Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation (OHV) Fund and Heritage Funds for non-motorized trails. ASPT must update […]

Trail-Oriented Development (TrOD) is an innovative planning approach that integrates multiuse trails with residential and commercial development to create walkable, bike-friendly communities that enhance mobility, promote healthier lifestyles, and strengthen local economies. Similar to Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), TrOD clusters businesses, housing, and other amenities around trails to foster vibrant, connected neighborhoods. Join the TrailNation Collaborative, […]

April 15, 2025Secretary Sean DuffyU.S. Department of Transportation1200 New Jersey Avenue, SEWashington, D.C. 20590 Dear Secretary Duffy, As you review the Department’s programs, policies and grants, we are writing to share with you the many ways that active transportation infrastructure is essential to the success of America. Investments made in walking and biking directly support […]

RTC letter to the U.S. DOT calls on the agency to protect federal investments in active transportation, reflecting bipartisan support.

This guidebook demonstrates how trails are part of resilient transportation infrastructure, how trails can be planned and designed to be resilient and sustainable, and how trails have a role in emergency planning and response. Trails of all kinds are places for recreation, exercise, and active transportation. Trails are also a crucial tool for making communities […]

The Guide for Maintaining Active Transportation Infrastructure for Enhanced Safety addresses maintenance of active transportation facilities for achieving mobility, accessibility, safety, and equity goals. The Guide presents a case for maintaining active transportation facilities as an integral component of a Complete Streets approach and discusses common maintenance issues impacting pedestrians, bicyclists, and micromobility users; temporary, […]

USDOT RAISE and Reconnecting Communities Programs Grants Prioritize Projects That Address Soaring Demand for Safe Walking and Biking Routes.