86R6037 BPG-D
By: VanDeaver H.C.R. No. 64
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The 2018 Texas Bicycle Tourism Trails Study
published by the Texas Department of Transportation identifies
numerous potential benefits of a statewide bicycle tourism trail
network; and
WHEREAS, In the study, TxDOT uses the term "bicycle tourism"
to describe a range of activities, from long-distance touring and
bike-packing to local day rides, urban cycling, and events such as
races; and
WHEREAS, The report found that well-designed and
well-constructed bicycle trails have a significant positive impact
on local economies; the cyclists who use them spend money on a wide
variety of products and services, and in states with such trails,
daily expenditures by cyclists on longer trips average $136 per
day; trails can serve as venues for bicycle events that draw
participants and their families from far and wide; moreover, many
studies conducted across the country have shown that bikeways are
prized amenities that raise nearby property values; and
WHEREAS, Bikeways were also found to promote the health and
well-being of users and the general public; these dedicated routes
not only create safe opportunities for exercise and stress
reduction, but also foster community interaction, mitigate urban
heat islands, and encourage preservation of natural habitats and
the environment; in addition, they raise national and international
awareness of the state's uniquely beautiful landscapes and of
neighboring historic and cultural sites; and
WHEREAS, The study recommends the development of pilot
projects to test large-scale implementation of bikeways; it
suggests prioritizing network segments using such characteristics
as accessibility to potential users and other transportation modes,
including airports and motor vehicle parking, and also by
considering proximity to existing bikeways, established bicycle
events, and such features as natural scenery, historic sites, and
state and national parks; and
WHEREAS, The Bicycle Tourism Trails Study presents a
compelling case for investing in a statewide network of bikeways in
order to recognize significant economic and social benefits; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 86th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby encourage the Texas Department of Transportation to develop
and support bikeway network projects; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the department leverage $8 to $80 million from
existing federal funds designated for non-motorized uses, such as
Transportation Alternative Program Funds, Transportation
Alternative Program Flex Funds, and successor programs, and
identify a state source for up to 20 percent of the total cost to
fund the projects; no more than 5 percent of the cost should be
obtained from local sources; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the department give priority to
network-focused projects that include multiple municipal or county
jurisdictions; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the projects prioritize the safety of all road
users and be suitable for users who are between the ages of 8 and 80;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That official copies of this resolution be
forwarded to the chair of the Texas Transportation Commission and
to the executive director of the Texas Department of Transportation
as an expression of the sentiment of the members of the 86th Texas
Legislature.