Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In

Rep. Daniel Lipinski (D-IL), an early supporter of the congressional "complete streets" bill, is circulating a letter to his House colleagues that urges support for pro-bike provisions in the upcoming federal transportation bill. Here's how Lipinski put it:

lip.jpgRep. Daniel Lipinski (D-IL) (Photo: Washington Post)

There is growing national interest in bicycling, and there is a wide array of public benefits that are derived from non-motorized transportation. Increased bicycling opportunities can reduce congestion, improve mobility, enhance quality of life and livable communities, and promote recreational and healthy activities. While federal support and program integration for bicycling has improved greatly since 1991 - increasing above one-percent of funding in recent years – the new authorization of the surface transportation program provides an opportunity to build upon this progress.

His letter suggests four specific goals for bike advocates in Congress:

    • inclusion of a "complete streets" policy in the federal transportation bill, similar to the one included in this week's House climate change bill;
    • increased accessibility for transportation users through "better physical integration of roads, sidewalks, bike paths and transit systems";
    • more equitable distribution of highway safety funds to reflect the 13 percent fatality rate for pedestrians and bikers;
    • increased funding for the Safe Routes to School program, which helps protect children who walk or bike to classes each day.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Advocates: The Senate’s Chance to Ensure America’s Public Transit Future Is Now

Congress is in the process of writing America's next big transportation bill — and more than 100 organizations are demanding it deliver for transit.

October 20, 2025

Why Does Female Leadership Break Through the Status Quo?

"This is not a feminist agenda. This is just logic," said one woman in power.

Maybe Monday’s Headlines Drive, Maybe They Walk

Nobody tells you where to go, baby. So what's the difference if a computer's behind the wheel or a person?

October 20, 2025

More Tantrums: Trump DOT Threatens NYC Over Building a Bus Lane (Yes, Really)

The feds threatened to cut city and state funding if New York doesn't halt all work on the 34th Street busway so the FHWA can review the project.

October 17, 2025

Hasta La Vista, Friday’s Headlines

Will the Gateway Project be back? Or will anyone taking a train have to get to da choppa instead?

October 17, 2025

‘Embarrassment’: Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking Still Flawed at Night

Relying solely on vehicle automation for pedestrian detection and collision avoidance is not advised, a new study said.

October 17, 2025
See all posts