Step up, Pennsylvania! The Shapiro Administration is now accepting applications for grants aimed at transforming communities into havens for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users. In a move to promote a more active lifestyle, officials are targeting locales that require funding to kickstart the creation of active transportation plans.
Announced yesterday, local governments across Pennsylvania are getting a leg up with grants of up to $3,000 to pave the way for future developments in their pedestrian infrastructure. Part of the WalkWorks program, the cash infusion seeks to connect people not just to each other, but to local destinations and healthier lifestyles. "Moving our bodies is a great way to improve our overall health, helping prevent stress and diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Walking is one of the easiest and most accessible ways to do that," Acting Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen said, according to an announcement on the state's health department website.
These grants coined the Justin R. Lehman Community Capacity-Building Pre-Planning Assistance Program, serve as initial stepping stones for boroughs, cities, towns, townships, and counties to secure bigger fish – substantial funding for comprehensive active transportation plans. Dr. Bogen emphasized the commitment to better health, encouraging "eligible municipal leaders to learn more about this grant opportunity and apply for funding to begin the process of helping residents take a step toward improved overall health."
With the deadline for applications set for May 31, there's a sense of urgency for municipalities to act fast. After all, beyond the grant, they are offered structured pre-planning technical assistance support to ensure their eventual proposals hit the mark. Funding is made available through the Department of Health, with credit due to the Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Administered by the Pennsylvania Downtown Center, which has based their helpfulness by offering an optional webinar on April 18, for those who register online in advance.
As July rolls around, the Pennsylvania Downtown Center will notify selected applicants of their award, setting them on a course from July 2024 through February 2025 to chart a healthier, more active future for their communities. Questions about the application can be shot over by email to [email protected] by May 17. So put your best foot forward, Pennsylvania, and take a stride towards a more pedestrian-friendly community.
