Bike/Pedestrian Funding in Serious Jeopardy in Federal Transportation Bill Negotiations

The House and Senate are on the cusp of finally striking a deal on the federal transportation bill. But we've heard alarming news that some of the good provisions that make everyone safer, give us more transportation options and repair our roads, bridges and transit systems could be sacrificed just to get a deal done.

Negotiations between Sen. Boxer and Rep. Mica, the conference committee chairs, have been going on nonstop. This process has, for now, turned into a "two people in a room" situation which could result in a bill draft this week.

Advocacy groups are hearing that Sen. Boxer may be giving away bike & pedestrian funding and control provisions to get a deal done.  (See also Transportation Bill Deal May Be Close - But Will It Be a Good Deal?)

If a transportation bill does hit the floor, there will be intense pressure to vote for it. By taking action now, there is an opportunity to change any deal before it goes public.

Here's What You Can Do
Call or email Senator Lieberman's staffer,  Garrett Eucalitto at 202-224-4041 or 

1. garrett_eucalitto@lieberman.senate.gov      
    
2. Call or email Senator Blumenthal's staffer, Jeff Long at 
   202-224-2823, or jeff_long@blumenthal.senate.gov  

Here's What You Can Say  
Hi, my name is [NAME], from [PLACE]. I'm calling to ask [SENATOR] to stand up for bike/pedestrian provisions in the transportation bill being negotiated right now. Can you please pass on this message to [SENATOR]:

• "Bike/pedestrian funding is important to me. Please preserve funding in the Senate bill that helps communities make walking and biking safer.  Over 350 people have been killed walking in CT since 2000.    
• Please ask Sen. Boxer to make local control of bike/pedestrian funding a priority in the negotiation.
• Please also urge Senate leaders like Sen. Schumer or Sen. Durbin to persuade Sen. Boxer to preserve bike/pedestrian funding.  Thank you."   

Thank you for taking action!