Trump Has Slashed Over $750 Million From Bike and Walking Trail Projects

Why It Matters

Removing hundreds of millions from active‑transport projects jeopardizes climate goals, equity outcomes, and local economic development tied to safe walking and biking networks.

Key Takeaways

• $750M removed from federal trail funding.
• Cuts target DEI‑linked Neighborhood Access program.
• Cities face project delays or cancellations.
• Local governments must find alternative financing.
• Equity‑focused mobility plans now under financial strain.

Pulse Analysis

The recent federal budget revision under the Trump administration reflects a broader political shift away from programs tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion. By slashing the Neighborhood Access and Equity Program, the administration removed a critical $750 million stream that had been earmarked for expanding bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, and multi‑use trails. This move not only reduces the overall pool of infrastructure dollars but also signals to state and local officials that DEI‑linked funding is vulnerable, prompting a reassessment of how active‑transport projects are financed and prioritized.

For municipalities, the immediate challenge is replacing lost federal dollars without derailing already approved projects. Many cities had integrated the federal grant into multi‑year capital improvement plans, counting on predictable cash flow to secure contractors and begin construction. In response, local leaders are exploring public‑private partnerships, dedicated transportation taxes, and municipal bonds to bridge the gap. Some jurisdictions are also revisiting project scopes, scaling back amenities, or prioritizing low‑cost safety improvements over expansive trail networks. The funding shortfall could disproportionately affect underserved neighborhoods that rely on affordable, non‑motorized mobility options, undermining equity objectives embedded in the original program.

Long‑term, the cuts raise questions about the stability of active‑transport funding in a politically volatile environment. Federal support has historically been a catalyst for nationwide adoption of bike and pedestrian infrastructure, influencing state policies and private investment. Without a reliable federal anchor, the momentum toward greener, healthier urban mobility may slow, potentially delaying climate mitigation targets and economic benefits linked to reduced congestion and improved public health. Stakeholders are therefore advocating for diversified funding streams and legislative safeguards to ensure that active‑transport initiatives remain resilient against future policy swings.