Is the construction of recreational trails and paths an eligible activity for TE funding?
No. Trail and path projects applied for under the Bicycle and Pedestrian category must clearly indicate the transportation purpose served between the logical termini. The proposed facility must be accessible to a broad segment of the public with a clear indication of the potential users that it will serve and benefit. All bike projects funded with Federal aid must be primarily for transportation purposes. Transportation purposes may include commuter work trips; travel to and through recreation areas, and other related uses. With that stated, Rails-to-Trails may use TE funds even if almost all the use will be recreational. A Rail-to-Trail meets the surface transportation requirement because the corridor served a surface transportation purpose in the past.
