From the League of American Cyclists, particularly pertinent for those of us in RI, because Senator Reed sits on the Senate Banking Committee which is hearing the bill:
Congress is considering a measure that could unleash funding for bicycle and pedestrian facilities and make important strides towards building “active transportation networks.”
Tomorrow is a critical vote.
Your Senator can play a key role in passing this important legislation.
On Tuesday, August 3, the Senate Banking Committee will be voting on the Livable Communities Act (S. 1619)— and your Senator is on this Committee.
This important bill would help communities:
- Develop comprehensive regional plans to incorporate transportation, housing, community and economic development, and environmental needs.
- Enact their plans by funding Transit Oriented Development (TOD), public transportation, and pedestrian and bicycle thoroughfares that foster economic development and build livable communities.
To clarify and enhance the language for biking and walking, Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) offered an amendment that defines “active transportation” projects and ensures they are prominently listed — on par with transit — as eligible activities. , Make sure your Senator knows that you, and the members of Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition, consider passage of this vital bill a high priority.
At a time when our nation is searching for ways to address some of our major transportation, climate and health challenges, this measure would create more affordable places to live, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and revitalize existing urban centers.
Please contact your Senator TODAY and ask him/her to vote for the Merkely amendment AND for S. 1619.
Alert the members of Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition to do the same!
To find your Senator, visit the League of American Bicyclists Advocacy Center.
If you believe in liveable communites and have feelings one way or another about this bill, please take a few moments today and at least fill out the online comment form.
UPDATE
The Sierra Club reports
Just wanted to fill you in on our victory in the Banking Committee yesterday! The Banking Committee approved the Livable Communities act by a voice vote along party lines (12-10). Thanks to all of you who made calls to Senate offices.
After the Senate returns from August recess, Senator Dodd hopes to advance his bill to the floor of the Senate (possibly attached to another bill) and pass it before he retires. So we’ll have more work to do convincing other Senators to support this good legislation and get it passed.
We will let everyone know when it’s time to start making calls and sending emails again. Thanks to everyone who took the time to do so for this vote.