Focus Term: Federal Programs

Blog
These US Communities Are Advancing Transformative Projects Through RTC’s 2026 Trail Grants Program
November 09, 2026

In 2026, RTC awarded more than $435,000 to over 35 community organizations and agencies to support transformative trail projects.

View of Spencer Mountain along the Carolina Thread Trail | Photo by Nelson Stegall Photography
Blog
What’s Next for Active Transportation After the Midterms
November 05, 2026

Leadership changes up and down the ballot present opportunity that demands action on active transportation after the midterms.

Walkers and bicyclists on Virginia's Mount Vernon Trail in Rosslyn | Photo courtesy Rosslyn BID
Blog
Trails, Walking and Biking Are on the Ballot Now
November 02, 2026

Trails are on the ballot. This infrastructure is supported by all Americans. However, public investment in trails is not guaranteed.

Market Street Bridge in Steubenville, Ohio | Photo courtesy RTC
Blog
Illinois’ Bloomingdale Trail: October 2026 Trail of the Month
October 07, 2026

Explore the history of the Bloomingdale Trail, a unique project started by local residents seeking a peaceful escape from city life.

Bloomingdale Trail through Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood | Photo by Luke Scaletta, Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce
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Webinar – TrADE Talk: Transportation Alternatives Lessons Learned and Future Guidance
September 28, 2026
This webinar explored RTC’s recently released Transportation Alternatives Data Exchange (TrADE) report. TrADE is the nation’s go-to transportation funding data source for trails and active transportation, tracking Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside (TASA) Program spending for tens of thousands of projects.    The TrADE report helps stakeholders at the federal, state and local levels understand and make effective […]
Blog
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Extension Opens Window for Congress to Make Walking and Biking Safer Nationwide
September 03, 2026

Learn how the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act extension opens a vital window for Congress to address transportation needs.

Active Transportation - California's Orange Line Bike Path | Photo by Ben Kaufman
Blog
The Secretary of Transportation’s New Proposal Sends the Country Back to the 1950s
July 27, 2026

RTC’s analysis of the next surface transportation bill finds it to be an unmitigated attack on walking and biking that will hurt the country.
Blog
Safe by Design: Examining the Impact of Trails and Bike-Ped Infrastructure on Safety in America
July 17, 2026

Learn how the Cowboy Recreation and Nature Trail enhances safety for cyclists and transforms the biking experience in Nebraska.

Merchantville Bike Path in New Jersey | Photo by Thom Carroll
Blog
Building Relationships With Elected Officials to Support Trail Advocacy
June 05, 2026

Explore how elected officials are vital in building relationships with communities to support local trails and active transportation.

Dequindre Cut segment of Michigan's Joe Louis Greenway | Photo by Joe Gall, courtesy Detroit Riverfront Conservancy (DRFC)
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Webinar – The Good, the Bad and the Unknown: What the House Reauthorization Bill Means for Connected Trail and Active Transportation Systems
June 04, 2026
In May, the House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee took the first step towards passing a new federal transportation law when it announced a bipartisan agreement entitled the BUILD America 250 Act – Building Unrivaled Infrastructure and Long-term Development for America’s 250th Act. While the bill continues legacy active transportation programs, it fails to prioritize […]