We make sure that bikes are considered in new projects, encourage communities across city lines to pursue funding together, support ballot initiatives dedicated to outdoor recreation, andlobby for federal funding for path and trail development.

We support local groups focused on increasing outdoor participation, help cities rethink how to provide more opportunities for close-to-home bike riding, foster the development of pocket bike parks and force the prioritization of bike trails and parks in underserved communities.

We work with state departments of transportation to add or improve shoulders on major county and state arterial roads, work to require that funding for highway projects is contingent on adding/improving shoulders, and ask state departments of transportation to prioritize road improvements that improve bicyclists safety and benefit bike riders.

We help prioritize projects that serve historically underserved and disinvested communities, advance bills that provide financial incentives to recreate by bike, connect bike riding with health and wellness outcomes, force equity considerations in planning and value electric bicycle access on the same level as traditional bikes.

Bike riding opportunities in rural, non-urban areas are revenue raisers for local communities through tourism. We support funding and policy measures that help build out trail systems, connected bike networks and the infrastructure needed to cater to visitors and residents alike.

As we approach 2025, the landscape for mountain bike and recreational advocacy in California is buzzing with action taking place across the local, state, and federal levels. From crucial policy discussions about electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) to pushing for increased funding for trail management, numerous major initiatives are on the horizon. PeopleForBikes attended the California Mountain Biking Coalition’s (CAMTB) Connected gathering earlier this fall and compiled key updates from the event.

Federal Advocacy: Pushing for Progress on Public Lands and Funding

One of the most pressing challenges facing California's recreational landscape is the continued lack of funding for trails and outdoor recreation programs. As budgets for agencies like the U.S. Forest Service continue to shrink, CAMTB and PeopleForBikes are looking for ways to bridge the funding gap. Federal advocacy continues to be a critical area of focus for CAMTB as federal funding for public lands is crucial to maintaining and expanding mountain biking trails and continuing recreational access. With budgets being uncertain, there is a direct impact on trail stewardship and infrastructure. 

Focusing on federal land designations is another major goal. Recreation and conservation groups are anticipating the signing of the Chuckwalla National Monument by President Biden before the Trump administration takes over in January. The Chuckwalla National Monument is seen as a positive step toward achieving California’s 30x30 goal (conserving 30% of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030) without further restricting access to biking. Federal land designations are crucial in maintaining access to public lands while also addressing broader environmental goals.

Local Elections: Building a Pro-Bike Movement From the Ground Up

Another critical focus at the conference was the ongoing work of mountain bike trail and advocacy organizations at the local and municipal levels. This vast network of local and community organizations supports individuals who understand the benefits of biking and helps them run for seats on local boards. Engaging in local-level decision-making is vital to securing long-term access to trails and other recreational spaces.

CAMTB is already laying the groundwork for the upcoming midterm elections in 2026, recognizing the importance of building a fund to support candidates and initiatives that back trails and biking across the state. Local elections are especially key. Lessons learned from successful campaigns can help refine future strategies and CAMTB is eyeing key opportunities to elect officials who understand the importance of trails.

The ongoing push to improve access for eMTBs was another major topic during the event, especially in light of the growing popularity of electric bicycles nationwide. PeopleForBikes is working with CAMTB to ensure that Class 1 eMTBs — pedal-assist e-bikes — are recognized and allowed on trails and areas where traditional bicycles are permitted. Harmonizing and formalizing eMTB regulations across the state will make it easier for land managers to adopt consistent and clear policies. CAMTB continues to focus on best practices for eMTB use, including proper identification of Class 1 bikes, education about OCEVs (out-of-class electric vehicles), and proper trail etiquette. This approach is meant to build trust with land managers, ensuring that eMTBs are integrated smoothly into existing trail systems without disrupting the experience for other trail users.

Recreation, Conservation, and Wildfires: The Role of CAMTB in California's Future

The intersection of recreation and conservation is an area where CAMTB has made significant strides. With ongoing challenges posed by wildfires and climate change, the role of sustainable trail stewardship has never been more urgent. CAMTB is actively involved in several initiatives to address these challenges, including collaborations with the California Wildfire Task Force and Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship to create and bolster fire-resilient infrastructure that includes recreational trails.


Moreover, CAMTB is advocating for the inclusion of recreational assets — like mountain bike trails — in the state's post-fire recovery efforts. Often overlooked in recovery planning, recreational trails need to be properly mapped and managed in fire-prone areas. Agencies like CalFire and the USFS have historically not accounted for trails in their base maps, leading to gaps in recovery and stewardship. By ensuring that trails are integrated into wildfire planning and response, CAMTB is helping to safeguard these recreational spaces.

As the urgency of fire recovery expands, CAMTB and PeopleForBikes are leveraging opportunities to push for funding that can also be used for recreational trail infrastructure and trail management. By utilizing state partnerships as proving grounds for wildfire-related trail management, CAMTB aims to show that sustainable recreation and wildfire resilience go hand in hand.

CAMTB’s Ongoing Efforts for the Mountain Biking Community

Heading into the new year, PeopleForBikes and CAMTB’s work is more important than ever. By advocating for funding at the federal level, developing local political strategies, and advancing eMTB access, the CAMTB is tirelessly working to ensure that mountain biking remains a vital and accessible part of California's outdoor recreation landscape, and PeopleForBikes is proud to support their work. Whether it’s through policy advocacy, election strategy, or wildfire recovery efforts, CAMTB and its chapters are committed to building a future where trails are protected, access is maintained for bikes and eMTBs, and the mountain biking community thrives.

Key Updates from the California Mountain Biking Coalition’s Connected Conference 

In the 2024 general election, PeopleForBikes’ VoteForBikes campaign tracked 30 bike-related measures on state and local ballots across the country. Out of a possible $33 billion available on November ballots, voters approved an impressive $26 billion in funding to support paved and off-road bicycle infrastructure projects. Combined with $1.4 billion approved in earlier elections, VoteForBikes supported a total of $27.4 billion for better biking nationwide in 2024!

Nearly 60% of the approved funding, totaling $16 billion, will go towards projects largely focused on the construction and improvement of safe places to ride including protected bike lanes, bike network expansions, street safety upgrades, and traffic calming improvements. The remaining $11.4 billion will fund the construction and maintenance of off-road trails and the acquisition and management of open space that supports and increases recreation opportunities. 

We collected seven of the most important pro-bike measures from the November election below. Visit our VoteForBikes page for a state-by-state breakdown of other pro-bikes measures in your area and around the country. 


Voters in the Evergreen State successfully voted against this harmful measure to protect critical funding for transformative multi-modal transportation infrastructure. Funding from the 2021 Climate Commitment Act (CCA), Washington’s cap-and-invest program designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, will continue to be available. This program funds the Move Ahead Washington package, which provides $1.3 billion for bike and pedestrian projects and programs that support safe and connected places to ride a bike across the state, including Connecting Communities Grants, Complete Streets, Safe Routes to School, and the School Based Bike Program. 

With a two-thirds majority, Seattle voters approved Proposition 1 and replaced the expiring Levy to Move Seattle. This 8-year, $1.55 billion investment represents a significant proportion of the Seattle Department of Transportation's budget and will increase mobility options across the city. Funding will be used to construct new protected bike lanes and greenways, improve the safety of existing bike lanes, and complete network gaps with an emphasis on southern Seattle. 


Nearly 60% of voters in the Golden State voted YES on Proposition 4, a $10 billion general obligation bond focused on safe drinking water, wildfire prevention, drought preparedness, clean air, and open space preservation projects. Of the $10 billion, nearly $2 billion will support the construction, maintenance, and improvement of recreation and active transportation infrastructure (like bike paths and trails!) to help combat the effects of climate change. 

City and County of San Francisco, California

San Francisco residents approved Proposition K to establish a park at Ocean Beach. This measure will amend the park code to permanently dedicate car-free space at the Parkway at Upper Great Highway after a temporary shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic was extremely popular. This initiative will allow people of all ages and abilities to safely gather and enjoy the outdoors for generations to come while also preserving delicate natural resources along San Francisco’s coastline. The park will increase opportunities to safely walk, bike, roll, and use transit, whether for recreation or transportation, without having to interact with vehicular traffic. 


Environment and Natural Resources Fund Amendment 

In a resounding win for the environment, Minnesotans overwhelmingly voted YES to reauthorize state lottery revenue to the Environment and Natural Resources Fund by constitutional amendment. This big win will provide a projected $1 billion in funding for projects that protect, conserve, and enhance air, water, land, and wildlife across the state. These projects include the creation and expansion of biking trails and biking tours that will increase recreation opportunities and continue Minnesota’s efforts to stay at the forefront as one of the best places to ride a bike in the U.S. This amendment also authorizes a 1.5% increase in funding for community grants that invest in underserved communities so everyone can enjoy access to nature. 

Voters in Maine approved Question 4 to authorize a historic appropriation of $30 million to the Maine Trails Program and fund the design, development, and maintenance of recreation and active transportation trails. With a focus on accessibility for all and a significant proportion of funding going towards non-motorized or multi-use trails, this funding will significantly expand opportunities to ride a bike across the state. 


Central Ohio Transit Authority (Franklin County, Ohio)

Voters in the greater Columbus area approved the Central Ohio Transit Authority Sales and Use Tax in a significant win for multi-modal transportation. This tax will generate an estimated $6 billion in revenue over the next 25 years to strengthen the rapidly developing region’s transportation system. While the primary focus is on public transit, nearly one-third of revenue will support transit-supportive projects like safe and connected places to walk and bike that facilitate safe access and first- and last-mile connections. Plans include building 500 miles of new bike paths, multi-use trails, and sidewalks, with 150 miles planned for completion in the next five years. 


Thanks to voters like you making your voice heard, we showed that Americans across the country value access to more safe and connected places to ride a bike. Thank you for joining us in voting to support vibrant communities where people and the environment are happier and healthier and everyone can access affordable and safe modes of transportation and recreation.


Looking for even more ways to get involved and make a difference? Explore PeopleForBikes’ Great Bike Infrastructure Project to support more great places to ride in your backyard and become a PeopleForBikes Foundation member to support better biking in your community and hundreds of others across the U.S.

Voters Approved $27.4 Billion to Support Better Biking in 2024

In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the National Park Service (NPS) prepared a Programmatic Environmental Assessment (PEA) to examine environmental impacts associated with the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) in the National Park System.


The findings from the PEA confirmed that the inclusion of e-bikes where bicycles are already allowed has "no significant impact" on the environment or user experience. PeopleForBikes welcomes the findings of the NPS assessment affirming the use of e-bikes on paths, roads, and trails where traditional bikes are already allowed across the National Park System. The ruling also gives individual park superintendents the discretionary authority to make decisions regarding e-bike use within their national park.

The study comes after years of debate regarding the impact of e-bikes on wildlife and visitor experiences. The PEA was conducted to address inadequacies in NEPA compliance associated with a 2020 NPS ruling (85 FR 69175), which defines the term “electric bicycle” and establishes rules for how they may be used, and to assess the impacts of the rule on a national level.


The rule’s findings resolve previous regulatory uncertainty about whether e-bikes were subject to existing regulations governing motor vehicles and traditional bicycles. The ruling specifically excludes e-bikes from the definition of “motor vehicle” and defines an “electric bicycle” within the model three-class system. Additionally, the rule prohibits e-bikes in areas, including public roads and parking areas, that have not been designated by the superintendent for e-bike use. The exception is where the use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed. Additionally, the rule prohibits using the electric motor exclusively to move an e-bike for an extended period of time without pedaling. The rule applies the same operational requirements to e-bikes that apply to traditional bicycles.


The rule does not mandate the use of e-bikes anywhere in the National Park System. Instead, it authorizes park superintendents to allow e-bikes where traditional bicycles are already allowed. The superintendent of each park unit has the discretion to allow e-bike use — or not — on a case-by-case basis. 

PeopleForBikes believes e-bikes can be responsibly integrated into park systems with thoughtful policies in place. Many parks, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park, have already undergone the NEPA review process and authorized the use of e-bikes on park paths, setting an example for other parks to follow.

For more information on the PEA’s findings and a summary of the document, visit PeopleForBikes’ Research Library. 


For more information on nationwide e-bike policies and PeopleForBikes’ ongoing e-bike advocacy work, please visit peopleforbikes.org/topics/electric-bikes or email Senior Manager of Recreation Policy Rachel Fussell at rachel@peopleforbikes.org.

National Park Service Releases Environmental Assessment on E-Bike Use in National Parks

Officials and advocates enjoy the new Pershing Bikeway on its opening day. PHOTO CREDIT: San Diego County Bicycle Coalition

More than 200 high-priority bike projects were constructed across the U.S. in the last year according to PeopleForBikes’ National Bike Project Tracker, a first-of-its-kind database as part of our Great Bike Infrastructure Project. 

With the goal of creating more safe, fun, and connected places to ride in communities nationwide, the Great Bike Infrastructure Project is fast-tracking thousands of bike projects in all 50 states. From protected bike lanes to multi-use paths to singletrack mountain bike trails, each project in our database features a basic description and project status — proposed or planned, approved but not funded, funded and ready for construction, or completed — alongside useful links for people to support local advocacy organizations and get projects across the finish line in their backyard.


As we enter the second year of the Great Bike Infrastructure Project, we’re celebrating a few of our favorite projects that were completed in the last 12 months along with the many benefits that bike projects can offer communities of all shapes and sizes. 

300 West is a critical north-south arterial road in Salt Lake City that previously wasn’t safe for biking. Local leaders took advantage of the need to repave the street to make much needed improvements, implementing Complete Streets strategies championed by the Great Bike Infrastructure Project. Using funding from the city’s “Funding Our Future” program, a local sales tax that can be a great funding source for creating better places to bike, the city constructed new crosswalks, planted trees for shade, and built a new 10-foot-wide bike path adjacent to the sidewalk so bike riders and pedestrians can both travel freely without conflict.  

San Diego’s new Pershing Bikeway connects the diverse North Park neighborhood to bike lanes near downtown through Balboa Park. The final 2.3-mile project includes a combined two-way protected bike lane connecting to a separate bike path which then connects to one-way protected bike lanes. The bikeway creates a more comfortable and convenient way for people of all ages and abilities to travel while providing an important link in San Diego’s growing connected bike network. 

Madison is expanding access to close-to-home recreation for thousands of local residents thanks to the recently completed singletrack trails through Sycamore Park. The 1.5-mile “adventure trail” features natural surfaces optimized for biking. Portions of the trail are covered in a natural stone chip seal surface while others are made up of native soil, wood, and stone. While communities on the west and south sides of Madison have access to many miles of singletrack, this new section of trail expands riding opportunities on the east side of the city, where trail access was previously scarce.


Is there a local bike project in your community that needs support? Explore our interactive map to identify projects in your area and let us know if we need to add a new project to our list. You can also explore our tools and resources to help advance more bike projects in your backyard. PeopleForBikes is committed to making sure every one of the more than 1,800 projects in our database is constructed to share the countless benefits of safe, fun, and connected places to ride with millions of people across the U.S.

Bike Projects Are Benefiting Communities Nationwide

This November, $33 billion in funding for better biking is on ballots in cities, counties, and states from coast to coast. Through our VoteForBikes campaign, PeopleForBikes tracks and advocates for ballot measures that make it safer and easier to ride a bike in communities across the country.

LEARN ABOUT PRO-BIKE MEASURES ON YOUR BALLOT

With election season in full swing, we collected seven of the most important measures on state and local ballots in the 2024 general election that could significantly move the needle for better bike riding across the U.S. 

This harmful measure could eliminate critical funding for multi-modal transportation opportunities in the state of Washington. If approved, Initiative 2117 will repeal the 2021 Climate Commitment Act (CCA), Washington’s cap-and-invest program designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In doing so, the transformational $1.3 billion in funding for bike and pedestrian projects that are included in the Move Ahead Washington package funded by the CCA will no longer be available. This measure will drastically reduce, and even eliminate, safe and connected places to ride a bike throughout Washington while setting a dangerous precedent for climate and transportation policy in other states across the U.S. 

Proposition 1 will replace the expiring Levy to Move Seattle that was approved by voters in 2015 to invest in and expand the city’s transportation system. The current levy represents one third of the Seattle Department of Transportation budget, positioning this measure as an important opportunity to continue funding safe and connected ways to move around Seattle over the next eight years. The measure outlines a $1.55 billion investment, including significant funding to build new protected bike lanes and greenways, adding safety features to existing bike lanes, improving bike accessibility on roads, and completing network gaps, particularly in southern Seattle.

A $10 billion general obligation bond is on the ballot for residents of the Golden State, which will invest in a variety of climate-focused projects including safe drinking water, wildfire prevention, drought preparedness, clean air, open space preservation, and expanded recreation opportunities. Of the $10 billion, nearly $2 billion will directly impact places to ride a bike through the construction of new trails, maintenance and improvement of existing trails, and support of active transportation infrastructure. This measure illustrates how bikes can be positioned as an effective vehicle for climate action by reducing the number of car trips and facilitating greater connection with the outdoors.


Residents of San Francisco have an opportunity to permanently dedicate car-free space on the Parkway at Upper Great Highway alongside Ocean Beach. If approved, this measure will provide space for people to enjoy the outdoors; increase transportation access for those who walk, bike, roll, and use transit; and preserve delicate natural resources along the city’s picturesque coastline. Children, families, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts will all be able to enjoy a safe place to bike in the park without the fear of riding in traffic while enjoying the views and a sense of community if this measure is approved. 


Environment and Natural Resources Fund Amendment

Minnesotans have the opportunity to continue the state’s long history of protecting and enjoying the outdoors by reauthorizing lottery revenue to the Environment and Natural Resources Fund through 2050. This amendment will provide a stable source of funding for projects that protect, conserve, and enhance air, water, land, and wildlife while expanding opportunities to recreate across the state, including the creation and expansion of biking trails as well as historic biking tours. The proposed measure also increases the amount of funding that can be dispersed from the fund for community grants that invest in underserved communities so everyone can access the many benefits of nature. If approved, nearly $3 billion in revenue will be generated over the next 25 years to support the fund.

The Maine Trails Bond represents a first-ever opportunity to fund a network of trails across the state if approved by voters. This measure will issue up to $30 million to establish the Maine Trails Program and oversee the design, development, and maintenance of recreation and active transportation trails. One-quarter of the funds will support non-motorized trails, another quarter of funds will support motorized trails, and the remaining funds will support multi-use trails. Funds will prioritize sustainability and accessibility to promote outdoor access for all and significantly expand opportunities to ride a bike across Maine. 

Central Ohio Transit Authority (Columbus, Ohio)

To keep pace with development in Columbus and surrounding areas, the proposed sales and use tax for the Central Ohio Transit Authority represents a historic opportunity to generate revenue and strengthen the region’s multimodal transportation system. Nearly one-third of funding generated from the sales tax will go towards transit-supportive projects including bike and pedestrian infrastructure. The proposed measure outlines plans to build 500 miles of new bike paths, multi-use trails, and sidewalks by 2050 to complement transit infrastructure that will significantly increase mobility options for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds in the region. 

Ensure your voice is heard this November by making a plan to vote, including checking voter registration deadlines. You can make a difference in your community by visiting our VoteForBikes tracker to identify a pro-bike measure on your ballot. Spread the word about exciting opportunities to improve biking in your backyard by sharing these ballot measures with your family, friends, neighbors, and community members. We can all pave the way for more safe, fun, and connected places to ride a bike in our communities by voting for bikes this election day.

$33 Billion is on the Ballot for Bikes This November

In May, Tennessee’s tourism department launched a statewide program to promote bicycle tourism aptly named Bike Tennessee. Consisting of 52 curated road cycling routes, the initiative is poised to help residents and visitors experience the state’s landscapes and rural towns safely and sustainably by bike.

Professional cycling guide Shannon Burke of Chattanooga-based Velo View Bike Tours spent two years on his bike mapping 1,739 miles of mostly rural, low-traffic routes that traverse some of the state’s most scenic and historic landscapes, including 14 state parks. The maps are now available to download on the cycling app Ride with GPS.

“Tennessee has all the right ingredients to be one of the premier cycling destinations in the country — low-traffic backroads, welcoming communities, and stunning scenery,” Burke says.

But with 93% of the state categorized as rural, Tennessee faces unique challenges in growing its bicycling community, attracting tourists, and boosting its outdoor recreation economy, which already generates $11.9 billion for the state, according to the Outdoor Industry Association. 

The routes are just the start. Developing awareness and infrastructure in Tennessee’s rural communities to support local and visiting cyclists will ensure the longevity of the initiative.

In April, ahead of the program’s launch, I spent a morning biking 23 miles on country roads with Burke, two other journalists, and Sonshine Loveless, another local tour guide with Outshine Adventures. We met at the Cookie Jar Cafe, situated on a 150-year-old dairy farm in the small rural city of Dunlap.

Together we rode up and down gradual hills and past churches and farms, avoiding potholes and catching views of the Cumberland Plateau’s ridges. At one junction, we stopped for water and to pet an affectionate donkey at the fence. Only a handful of vehicles, most of them trucks, passed us at slow speeds during our two hours on the road. A few drivers even waved.

“You’ve got ridges, you’ve got donkeys, you’ve got all you need,” says Burke, who moved to Chattanooga from Austin for the city’s great road biking opportunities before the pandemic. 

He’s partly serious, partly joking. Points of interest and resources along each route are noted in the ride descriptions on Ride with GPS. During his time biking across the state, Burke also identified opportunities for rural areas to make investments to better welcome cyclists, including protected bike lanes, safety facilities, and street signage as well as restaurants, restrooms, lodging options, events, and bike shops that offer rentals.

Because of the limited rental supply in most of the small rural towns, Burke recommends clients bring their own bikes when he leads tours. “The problem with going to a rural area is you score on the low traffic and great scenery, but you’re also by definition away from urban amenities,” he says. 

Once we finished our loop and returned to the Cookie Jar Cafe, we were famished and ready for a home-cooked meal. On the menu, there were southern classics like fried dill pickle spears, corn nuggets, turnip greens, hushpuppies, cornbread, and deviled eggs. What they’re really known for though, Burke says, are their pies — coconut cream is his favorite. 

We ordered a slice and it didn't disappoint. If every rural community had its own Cookie Jar Cafe, plus a few other amenities, Tennessee would have no problem getting cyclists to visit.


In 2021, the Tennessee legislature passed $2.1 million in recurring funding, allowing the Department of Tourist Development to help develop at-risk communities as desirable destinations. The bike routes program was born from that initiative, led by Jenni Veal, the state’s rural destination development manager. She and Burke worked together a few years ago to develop a mini version of the initiative in Southeast Tennessee, where she was the regional tourism director.

Today, Veal is facilitating conversations between multiple state agencies who want to be involved in the statewide campaign, such as the Department of Transportation’s bike and pedestrian planning and the Department of Health’s bike share efforts. 

For the last year, Veal and a colleague traveled to rural communities across the state to help its leaders understand the bike program’s goals, from the economic benefits to the safety considerations. Most importantly, they had the opportunity to ride bikes provided by Loveless.

“We wanted to get people on bikes who maybe haven’t been on them in a while,” Veal says. If the people promoting cycling don’t ride bikes, “They don’t understand what their community might feel like on a bike and what their needs are.” The partner pedal instilled some empathy for riders, and some community leaders even bought their own bikes after the event.

Progress will be slow because that’s the realistic pace of community development, Veal says. A bike shop with a mechanic or a road resurfacing effort may not transpire in every rural town. But they’re still celebrating each win, like the installation of two bike racks in Brownsville, a city near Memphis of about 10,000 people where Ford is building an electric vehicle plant. 

As momentum picks up, Burke already has his next assignments: mapping routes for gravel riding and mountain biking. As the organizer of three gravel and mountain events across the state — Tennessee Gravel, Reliance, and Telico — all of which bring in out-of-state visitors as well as locals, he knows there’s more opportunities the state can unlock with other kinds of riding.

Success of the program is going to require more than advertisements and the Bike Tennessee website. In order to be truly successful and sustainable, real investments by the state and local municipalities are necessary to compel cyclists to visit.

“If you get them to come to the state and see that it’s really beautiful here, then they have an interest in coming back,” Burke says.

Tennessee is Using Bicycling to Support Rural Tourism

Policy

Improving Recreational Access for Bikes

Securing Funding for New Parks and Trails

Helping Cities Build Great Places to Bike That Are Close to Home

Improving Road Cyclist Safety

Increasing Access for Kids, Veterans, Electric Bicycle Riders and Underserved Communities

Promoting Recreation-Based Economic Development in Rural Areas