Federal Bill Proposes More Funds for Pedestrian and Bike Projects in Low-income Communities

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According to a blog post from Streetsblog USA, Rep. Albio Sires (D-NJ) has introduced a federal bill to increase funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects. The bill, called the New Opportunities for Bicycle and Pedestrian Infrastructure Financing Act — NOBPIFA, would reserve 1% of a $1 billion transportation fund to be used specifically for biking and walking projects.

It would also ensure that 25% of funding be directed toward low-income neighborhoods. According to Sires, a report produced by the Sierra Club and the League of American Bicyclists shows that Latinos and African Americans are more likely than their white counterparts to be killed on bikes.

The report finds that Latinos are 23% more likely to be killed on a bike than whites and African Americans are 30% more likely to be killed.

It also shows that the fastest growth in cycling is occurring in communities of color. In fact, trips made by bike increased by 50% among Latinos in from 2001-2009.

According to Streetsblog, the bill has support from two Florida representatives. Florida has often been identified as one of the most dangerous places for biking and walking.

Read the full article here.