
filed under: federal legislation
Encouraging that HR 5797, “The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Full Funding Act of 2020” be included in the transportation reauthorization bill currently being drafted
by Mike Passo, Executive Director, American Trails
Sheltowee Trace - Big Turtle 50 Miler Trail Runner preparing to pass over creek on swinging bridge in Morehead, Kentucky; Photo by Michael Whisman
American Trails' partners always answer the call and we need your help once again! The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) faces a crucial time as the program is at risk of going dormant without Congressional approval before September 30th.
On the right of this page is a sample letter of support addressed to relevant committee leaders and requests “…that HR 5797, “The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Full Funding Act of 2020” sponsored by Congressman Welch of VT and Congressman Curtis of UT be included in the transportation reauthorization bill…”
Please use the attached sample language, modify it to address your specific needs, and put it on your organizational letterhead. It is important to note that while individual letters to Congress are important, this effort is primarily focused on getting our partner associations, clubs, and organizations to send organizational letters of support. If you have the authority to send the letters on your organization’s letterhead, please do so. If you need to consult the board of directors or go through some other process before the letter can be signed and sent, please start that process ASAP.
The Coalition for Recreational Trails (CRT) and partners with a Washington, D.C. presence are currently advocating for the continuation of RTP and these letters will be used to support those efforts.
If you send a letter, please email it to the following House of Representatives staff and the leadership at the CRT:
Published May 2020
The Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) is Making a Difference Across America
Use this interactive map to find where, when, and how these funds are being used.
Trails Appropriations Request Submitted to Congress
Read the public witness testimony.
2021 Recreational Trails Program Annual Report
A report on the use and benefits of Federal Recreational Trails Program funds across the United States.
RTP - Workforce Development, Equity, and Climate Resiliency
The Recreational Trails Program directly addresses our desire to put young people to work, provide equitable access to nature, and provide resilient responses to natural disasters