Connecticut House Bill HB05386

Connecticut 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/10
• Refer: 2/25/10

Caption

An Act Concerning The Safety Of Pedestrians And Cyclists And The Promotion Of Healthy Communities.

Impact

The competitive grant program outlined in HB 5386 would empower municipalities to design and implement projects aimed at improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists. The Department of Transportation is given the authority to manage this program, ensuring that projects are selected based on their potential to enhance safety and access for nonmotorized users. This focus on infrastructure development is a proactive step towards not only decreasing accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists but also promoting a healthier population by encouraging active lifestyles among residents.

Summary

House Bill 5386 is an act aimed at improving the safety of pedestrians and cyclists while promoting healthy communities through the establishment of a competitive grant program. This bill mandates that 10% of federal funds received by the state for transportation projects be allocated for grants that support the construction of infrastructure conducive to nonmotorized road users. The bill focuses on various infrastructure enhancements like sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and other facilities necessary for safe and active transportation options, significantly impacting how local municipalities approach transportation safety.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed favorably by those advocating for pedestrian and cyclist safety—including local governments and health advocacy groups—there may be contention regarding the allocation of federal funds and the prioritization of projects. Some critics might argue that municipalities may struggle to meet the criteria set forth for grant applications, leading to disparities in how effectively funds are utilized across different regions. Furthermore, potential debates could arise over which infrastructure projects should receive funding and how to balance this with other pressing transportation needs.