Moylan Works to Clarify Promise to Fund Walking and Biking Projects

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Recognizing the need to develop infrastructure for all forms of transportation, state Rep. Marty Moylan, D-Des Plaines, recently passed a measure aimed at fulfilling a promise to devote annual funding from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for walking and biking projects.

“While roads, bridges and other projects receive the majority of transportation infrastructure dollars, it’s also important that we value other forms of transportation projects,” Moylan said. “Last year we passed a historic capital bill that involved the input of stakeholders across this state. There was an agreement during negotiations to set aside IDOT money for walking and biking projects, but unfortunately the final bill signed into law did not reflect what was agreed upon and shortchanged this priority. As a result, it was important for us to follow up with this measure clarifying the underlying funding plan.”

The Moylan-introduced House Bill 4276 recently passed the House Chamber and is currently being considered in the Senate. The legislation would provide $50 million annually for non-vehicular projects, such as walkways and bike paths, to the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program. Under the bill, 25% of this money must go toward funding projects in high need communities, which is determined by how many residents live below the federal poverty line. The bill fixes an error in law that required IDOT to provide $50 million in funding every two years, instead of annually.

“I was happy to work with the Active Transportation Alliance and other advocates who made sure that the resources promised for these projects was accurately reflected,” Moylan said. “I am pleased we were able to pass this legislation in the House, and would like to encourage my colleagues in the Senate to vote in favor of this bill as well.”

For more information about this legislation please contact Moylan’s full-time constituent office at 847-635-6821 or email StateRepMoylan@gmail.com.