I was encouraged to see the Senate is looking at boosting funding for mass transit--very important, but not enough. I'm writing this diary to encourage anyone reading this to lobby their senators and representatives to make sure the stimulus bill includes funds for non-motorized transportation infrastructure (bicycling, walking, running, etc.).
::more after the flip::
We need this infrastructure, and people want it. In a survey put out where I live, by the Kirksville Parks and Recreation Department, "More Hike/Bike Trails" was ranked as the HIGHEST PRIORITY by the most respondents.
In terms of Return on Investment, there are few better ways to spend our money. Infrastructure that supports non-motorized transportation leads to economic development:
Attracting and retraining businesses, revitalising downtown areas, attracting and retaining new residents, tourism, and reduced health care costs are all documented effects of trails and bike lanes.
The health effects are striking. For example, one study showed that for every dollar spent on trails, $2.94 in medical costs were saved (and $.75 of that dollar is paid for by trail users). Many other studies show similar or even more impressive benefits.
In short, the Return on Investment for this kind of infrastructure is better than that of nearly any other public investment AND we have seriously underfunded such infrastructure in relation to its potential value in the past.