The Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2009

The Surface Transportation Extension Act (S.1498) provides an 18-month extension of highway programs authorized under SAFETEA LU. This would continue all programs at their current FY 2009 funding levels until March 2011.

It is encouraging that the extension includes bicycle and pedestrian programs such as transportation enhancements, Safe Routes to Schools and the non-motorized transportation pilot program. However, historically, bike/ped funding has dropped during extension periods and we are concerned that this trend will continue.

America Bikes has no official position on the Surface Transportation Extension Act.

However, America Bikes does encourage Congress to include data collection and research in any long-term extension. Taking advantage of this delay to better our understanding of the benefits of bike/ped programs would be useful in determining their role in the authorization.