Support Investments in Wisconsin Trails

Gov. Tony Evers has proposed an exciting state budget that takes advantage of new federal investments in trails, walking and biking.

The proposal includes allocating $18.5 million in federal funding for investments in trails and other safe walking and biking infrastructure across the Badger State.

In addition, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy and our partners at Wisconsin Bike Fed and Trek are calling on the state to invest $1.2 million annually in state matching funds for communities and $60 million in traffic calming grants to improve walking and biking safety across the state.

Urge your legislators to support more trails across the Badger State. Personalized messages work best—tell your legislators why trails are important to you.

Recipients

Your State Senator or Senators
Your State Representative or Representatives

Contact

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Message

* Subject:

Dear [Decision Maker],

* Personalize your message

I urge you to support the proposed 2023-2025 budget increase in the federal Transportation Alternatives (TA) program allocation to WisDOT so that Wisconsin can improve its walking, biking and trail infrastructure to bring economic, health, safety, recreational and other quality-of-life benefits to all of your constituents.

Additionally, the proposed $1.2 million annually to provide matching funds for rural TA projects will further support these underserved areas in creating safe places to walk and bike. Furthermore, the call in the budget for $60 million for traffic calming grants to combat reckless driving will make nonmotorized transportation safer for people of all ages and abilities.

Trails are good for Wisconsin's economy. A recent Rails-to-Trails Conservancy study found that the net economic impact of trails and active transportation is as much as $1.5 billion to our economy each year. Plus, with a $7 billion state surplus, it is time to invest in Wisconsin's future by addressing long neglected infrastructure needs. Our state used to be ranked second in the country for its trails system, and we have currently fallen to 29th, well below other Midwestern states such as Indiana, Ohio and Minnesota, which are actively investing in their walking, biking and trails infrastructure.

Thank you for your leadership on this issue.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]