Parks to People Active Transportation Act

This bill would require the Department of Transportation to create a grant program for states, local governments, and Indian tribes to develop community greenway paths for walking and bicycling. The Department would establish a national network of regionally or nationally significant paths that cross multiple jurisdictions and meet specific criteria, such as reducing congestion and improving safety. Eligible projects under this program must focus on improving public access to parks, transportation hubs, and other community needs.

This bill affects state and local governments, as well as Indian tribes, who are eligible to receive grants for the development of community greenway paths. The Department of Transportation is responsible for administering the grant program and designating the national greenway paths network. Additionally, the legislation impacts individuals who utilize walking, bicycling, and other motor vehicle alternatives to access public parks and transportation.

• Establishment of a community greenway grant program. The Department of Transportation (DOT) is required to create a grant program for states, local governments, and Indian tribes to fund greenway paths intended for walking, bicycling, and other alternatives to motor vehicles.
• Designation of a national greenway paths network. The DOT must identify and designate regionally or nationally significant paths that cross multiple jurisdictions, reduce traffic congestion, improve safety, or provide environmental and community benefits.
• Project eligibility for public access and community needs. Eligible projects under the program must focus on improving access to public parks, transportation systems, and other essential community requirements.

The bill aims to expand access to public parks and community resources by establishing a grant program for the development of greenway paths. It intends to create a national network of significant non-motorized transportation routes that improve safety, reduce traffic congestion, and provide environmental benefits.