Caltrans emphasizes commitment to improving non-motorized travel

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has released its annual Non-Motorized Transportation Facilities Report, which highlights the department’s achievements and emphasizes its commitment to providing safe, sustainable, integrated and efficient transportation systems, to enhance both the state’s economy and livability.

Among the many successes outlined in the report are Caltrans’ recent jump into the nation’s top-ten bicycle-friendly states and its creation of one of the nation’s largest active transportation programs.

“California has always been a transportation leader, and this report reinforces that hard-earned reputation,” Caldrons Director Malcolm Dougherty said. “Transportation is a vital part of our daily lives, and increasing the diversity of travel options is something the public wants. We are committed to making walking and biking safer.”

The report provides an overview of California’s Active Transportation Program (ATP), which is the largest of its kind in the U.S., including 265 projects using $368 million in ATP funds. It also highlights program activities and completed projects, as well as other state and federal partnering programs, serving both to establish and improve bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

According to a report by the League of American Bicyclists, California jumped from 19th to 9th in the nation in 2014, due to the state’s progress in legislation, funding and policy, which will make it easier to build bike lanes and mandate that drivers give cyclists three feet of space when they pass.

For more information, visit www.dot.ca.gov or call 916-654-6130.