Communities around Minneapolis and St. Paul are working to build more robust bike infrastructure networks.

The suburbs of Minneapolis and St. Paul are growing their bike infrastructure networks, thanks in part to state and federal grants. Writing in the Star Tribune, Greta Kaul notes that some suburban areas, such as Ramsey County, are developing their first-ever bike plans.
According to director of the League of American Bicyclists' Bicycle Friendly America program Amelia Neptune, “Suburbs were generally built for cars — often many lanes of them traveling at high speeds — so making them bike-friendly requires a culture shift.” In some places, biking is primarily viewed as recreational; consequently, bike infrastructure is concentrated in areas with nature trails and parks, but doesn’t connect to daily needs like grocery stores.
As Kaul explains, the Metropolitan Council distributes much of the funding for bike infrastructure in the region. “The regional sales tax passed by the Legislature is expected to add roughly $24 million a year to the $15 million in bike and pedestrian infrastructure federal funds distributed annually by the Met Council's Transportation Advisory Board.”
FULL STORY: Twin Cities suburbs aim to expand bike infrastructure

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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