On National Bike to Work Day, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced that over $63 million in grants from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be allocated for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program. This funding is set to benefit 99 local, regional, and tribal communities by enhancing road safety and reducing fatalities and serious injuries, with a particular focus on bicyclist safety.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of safety for all road users. He stated, "Bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers should be safe on our roads and streets, and the Biden-Harris Administration is taking action across the country to make our roads safer for everyone who uses them." He further noted that these grants would enable communities to implement roadway safety measures effectively.
USDOT Deputy Secretary Polly Trottenberg highlighted the benefits of cycling as a low-cost, environmentally friendly mode of transportation that promotes community connection. She said, “Cycling is a low cost and healthy mode that burns no gas, emits no carbon, makes our streets safer, and connects people to their communities."
The infrastructure law initiated by President Biden offers billions of dollars across various programs aimed at improving road user safety. The SS4A grants support communities in adopting comprehensive approaches aligned with DOT’s National Roadway Safety Strategy. This includes developing road safety action plans and implementing effective interventions known to significantly reduce crashes.
Today's SS4A awards represent the first of three rounds scheduled for 2024. The grant program continues to accept applications until August 29th, with funds still available for the third and final round.
Among the recipients are Mount Holly in New Jersey; Palacios in Texas; Goodyear in Arizona; and York in Alabama. These communities will use their respective awards for projects focusing on bicycle transportation safety improvements.
The second round of SS4A grants is expected to be announced in August. More information about the SS4A program and application process for the open third round can be found on the USDOT website.
National Bike Month, celebrated each May, is a tribute to bicycling and its contribution to human and community well-being. National Bike to Work Day encourages people across the United States to try bicycling for transportation, offering rewards such as prizes, breakfast pit stops, T-shirts, and more.
