The U.S. Department of Transportation’s FY22 RAISE grants accounted for the needs of bicyclists and pedestrians, demonstrating exceptional demand for trails

Depending on where you live, this time of year may mean the prolonged dregs of winter, early signs of Spring, or some variation on “mud season.” But for most of the country—regardless of climate or geography—it’s also the height of the state legislative season.

Most states’ general assemblies are part-time, and generally convene in the early part of each calendar year. All but a handful of states are currently in session. So what does this mean for trails and active transportation funding in states?

This round of RAISE funding promises to be your best chance yet to secure $5 million to $25 million to build your trail and other active-transportation connections.

Below, we’ve spotlighted a handful of the exciting new rail-trails that have opened up around the country this year, as well as the broader trail networks they tie into.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced nearly $1 billion in RAISE grants this cycle, “that will improve infrastructure, strengthen supply chains, make us safer, advance equity, and combat climate change.”

RTC’s analysis finds the Bipartisan infrastructure deal misses opportunity to prioritize walking and biking as essential.

Since the program was created in 2009, USDOT has awarded nearly $9 billion in RAISE funds addressing all modes of transportation.