Using Trails and Trail Networks as a Primary Means of Increasing Safety and Equity for Vulnerable Road Users

Presenters: 

• Kimberly Chesser, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
• Kendra Schenk, Burgess & Niple

This session will bring more awareness to the infusion of federal funds as a result of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and make the connection of how and where trails and active transportation networks are able to fill the safety priority goals within these federal programs.  As the Safe System Approach and Vision Zero strategies are implemented by state and local governments, trails and trail networks offer and provide the impacts that help provide safety to vulnerable road users and increase equity.  Rails-to-Trails Conservancy will use lessons learned from our TrailNation to demonstrate resources deployed that maximize impact across safety and equity objectives.  Our expert panel of speakers will include state and local officials who will highlight their projects funded from federal grant programs such as the Safe Streets and Roads for All and RAISE grants.  Speakers will share examples of their projects, explain how an emphasis on interconnected trail networks advances safety and equity goals, as well as what makes their project successful, and lessons learned.