Parks to People Active Transportation Act

Improved Transportation and Connectivity: The program aims to create safe and connected greenway paths that can reduce congestion, reduce single-occupant vehicle trips, and improve access to jobs and public transportation (Section 2(b)(2), Section 2(d)(1)).

Environmental and Health Benefits: The creation of these paths is intended to lower emissions for greenhouse gases and criteria pollutants like NOx, VOC, and PM (Section 2(b)(2)). Additionally, the projects aim to provide more opportunities for walking, bicycling, and recreation (Section 2(d)(1)).

Addressing Safety and Economic Disparities: The Secretary is directed to consider projects that address existing disparities in pedestrian and bicyclist fatality rates based on race or income, and projects that provide access to schools, jobs, and services for low-income communities and communities of color (Section 2(d)(5)).

Increased Support for Rural and Disadvantaged Areas: The bill provides higher Federal cost-sharing for certain areas, such as 90 percent for rural areas and up to 100 percent for disadvantaged communities with a poverty rate of over 40 percent (Section 2(h)).

Financial Requirements for Organizations: To be eligible for a grant, organizations must demonstrate a commitment to providing matching funds, land, or in-kind contributions (Section 2(d)(4)).

Administrative and Planning Burdens: Organizations seeking projects on Federal lands must enter into a cooperative agreement with the appropriate Federal agency (Section 2(c)(2)). Furthermore, there is a specific set-aside of up to $3,500,000 for administrative costs, research, and training (Section 2(f)(2)).