The state Active Transportation Program (ATP) is the funding source for creating safe streets, sidewalks, and trails so that Californians can bicycle or walk to wherever they want to go. Local demand for ATP funding far outpaces the amount allocated in the budget, and many communities lack safe routes for biking and walking.

On May 14 (Bike to Work Day in LA and the Bay Area), the Governor released his latest budget proposal. We were disappointed to learn that the ATP did not see an increase in funding. Earlier this spring, the California Bicycle Coalition and 120 organizations statewide called for adding $100 million to the Active Transportation Program.

There is a clear need for increased funding. But despite an increase of more than a billion dollars in available revenue, the governor failed to recognize that need.

On Wednesday May 20th our champions in the Assembly budget committee stepped up and proposed a $25 million increase the the ATP. The California Bicycle Coalition and our partners statewide are rallying in support of the Assembly proposal, and pushing for it to be reflected in the final budget, which will be adopted by June 15.

We have one chance to get the entire Legislature to counter Governor Brown’s proposal and increase the ATP. Help us rally behind our champions in the Assembly so that all Californians can enjoy the freedom of walking and bicycling safely in their communities. Here’s how to help:

1. Pledge your support at bit.ly/IncreaseATP
2. Call your Senator and Assemblymember and tell them to encourage legislative leadership to adopt the Assembly’s proposal to increase the ATP.
   Our Santa Monica Representatives:
   •   State Assembly (District 50) Assembly Member Richard Bloom
   •   State Senate (District 26) Senator Benjamin Allen
   Find your representative here: findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov
3. After you call, email your representatives to follow up, and please be sure to cc increasetheatp@calbike.org