DRIVE is a step backward for 21st century transportation
Based on information provided by the League of American Bicyclists, a transportation bill is now emerging from the U.S. Senate. With the unfortunate acronym DRIVE, the bill is up for committee debate on Wednesday, June 24.
D.C.-based advocates were successful in getting some small changes to the Transportation Alternative Program (TAP), but they do not see any real innovation or vision within DRIVE to grapple with transportation needs of this 21st Century.
Here are some specific problems:
- DRIVE includes an increase in funding overall, including a freight program. However, the funding levels suggested in the bill are just that–suggestions. There’s no funding source for the increase.
- DRIVE de-emphasizes safety. The bill actually decreases the percentage of funding that goes to safety.
- DRIVE would stop TAP funding from increasing even as other programs increase.
We’ll update this information soon to let you know what you can do to help. Senators will need to hear from scores of constituents if we are to get a federal transportation bill that adequately funds biking, walking, and safety.