Key facts
- Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy redirected $1.73 billion from bike lane projects, calling them "DEI pet projects."
- The administration removed bike lanes from the Federal Highway Administration's list of proven safety countermeasures.
- Previous grants for bike lane projects in Albuquerque and Fairfield, Alabama, were canceled by the administration.
- Advocates state that defunding bike lanes will negatively impact roadway safety and create uncertainty for cities.
- Studies show bike lanes reduce traffic speeds and collision frequency.
- Albuquerque is suing the transportation department over a canceled grant for a bike trail.
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced the redirection of $1.73 billion in federal funds previously allocated for bike lane projects, which he described as "Biden-era DEI pet projects." This move, along with the removal of bike lanes from the Federal Highway Administration's list of proven safety countermeasures, has drawn criticism from transportation advocates who argue it will undermine roadway safety and create uncertainty for cities.
Duffy's decision follows the Trump administration's prior cancellation of grants for projects in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Fairfield, Alabama, which were intended to improve safety and accessibility through separated bicycle and pedestrian facilities. The administration's rationale for these actions appears to be part of a broader cultural debate, while also aiming to prioritize car-centric infrastructure despite increasing bicycle usage.
Advocates like Caron Whitaker of the League of American Bicyclists highlight the disruption caused by the funding reversals, impacting cities that have already invested in planning and safety initiatives. Research cited suggests that bike lanes significantly reduce traffic speeds and collision rates for all road users, offering a high return on investment.
Despite opposition from some local businesses, such as Lester Wasserman of Tip Top Shoes in Manhattan who fears impacts on deliveries and pedestrian safety, a significant majority of Americans support the presence of bike lanes. A YouGov survey indicated 75% of US adults favor bike lanes in their communities.
The city of Albuquerque has filed a lawsuit against Duffy and the Department of Transportation over the cancellation of its $11.4 million grant, particularly in light of a recent surge in cyclist fatalities in New Mexico. Advocates like Erik Noonan emphasize that roadways were designed with less data in the past and that removing bike lanes from federal safety lists will exacerbate safety issues.