More Good News for Trails, Take Action Now
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A bill in the Florida Senate that would increase funding for the state’s Shared-Use Nonmotorized (SUN) Trail network and expand the Florida Greenways and Trails System will be heard Feb. 22, 2023 by the Appropriations Committee, and an identical bill has been introduced in the Florida House of Representatives.
The Florida Bicycle Association supports both bills for their expected positive impacts on public health, local economies, equitable access to transportation options, and the environment.
The Transportation Committee voted unanimously in favor of SB 106 on Feb. 7. The identical House bill, HB 915, was filed Feb. 16.
The proposed legislation makes trails in the Florida Wildlife Corridor a priority for the SUN Trail program and the state’s greenways and trails network; increases annual SUN Trail spending for new trails to $50 million per year; and makes a one-time appropriation of $200 million to accelerate trail construction.
In addition to expanding the statewide trails system, the Florida Bicycle Association encourages creating connections to and within population centers so that more people can access the trails and safely use “active” modes of transportation to get from one place to another, such as from home to work, school and stores.
SB 106 was filed by Senator Jason Brodeur. HB 915 was introduced by Representative Adam Botana. Expanding residents’ access to the Wildlife Corridor has been named as a key priority by Senate President Kathleen Passidomo.
