Louisiana Leads the Way: Supporting Activity-Friendly Rural Communities
Millions in federal Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funds went unused in rural Louisiana due to local match requirements. To address this, public health partners supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including LA HOP and Safe Routes Partnership, collaborated with state officials to leverage a Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provision that lowered the match for rural communities. This change unlocked millions for projects to create safer, walkable towns with better access to shops, schools, and parks and supporting #ActivePeople. Through walk audits and a Rural Complete Streets Summit, 11 rural towns secured over $13 million, driving economic development and setting a model for community revitalization.
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