The U.S. House of Representatives' Transportation and Infrastructure Committee this week advanced the Building Unrivaled Infrastructure and Long-term Development for America's 250th Act (BUILD America 250 Act), which would renew federal transportation programs and investments that shape community health and economic development. The American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health for all, issued the following statement:
"Moving more is one of the best ways to improve health and reduce the risk of chronic disease, yet most people do not get enough physical activity. The BUILD American 250 Act is an important opportunity to make it easier, safer and more accessible for people to be active in their daily lives by improving access to walking, biking and other forms of active transportation.
"When people can get to where they need to go safely, the benefits are clear. Creating safer streets and expanding transportation options to communities that need them most is a win for health and the local economy. As Congress works to reauthorize federal transportation programs ahead of the current law's expiration in September, we are encouraged the bill maintains key programs like the Transportation Alternatives Program and Safe Streets and Roads for All. These investments help communities build sidewalks, bike lanes and safer crossings, support Complete Streets and Safe Routes to School approaches and create safer, more connected and more livable neighborhoods, especially for children, families, older adults and people with disabilities, while also reducing collisions, improving air quality and connecting people to jobs, schools and health care.
"However, the proposal falls short of what is needed to meet this moment. With pedestrian fatalities at historic highs and too many communities lacking safe, accessible options, federal policy must do more to build complete, connected transportation networks that support health, safety and well-being. While the bill preserves important programs, it does not provide the investment, connectivity and accountability needed to fully support active transportation.
"The American Heart Association urges Congress to strengthen the bill by protecting and expanding funding for active transportation, advancing Complete Streets policies, reinforcing protections for people who use roads without the protection of a motor vehicle—including those who walk, bike or roll, such as people who use wheelchairs, scooters or other mobility devices—and ensuring initiatives like the Transportation Alternatives Program and Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program are fully leveraged to improve air quality and public health. The Heart Association has long supported policies that help people be more active, reduce sedentary behavior and ensure safe, accessible spaces in every community. We look forward to working with Congress to deliver a transportation system that helps people live longer, healthier lives."
