How can urban planners secure funding for active transportation projects?

2 Explore diverse funding sources

The second step in securing funding for active transportation projects is to explore diverse and complementary funding sources. Depending on the scale, type, and location of the project, urban planners can tap into different levels of government funding, such as federal, state, or local grants, loans, or programs that support active transportation, sustainability, health, or equity goals. Urban planners can also leverage non-governmental funding sources, such as foundations, corporations, non-profits, or crowdfunding platforms that share a similar vision or mission with the project. Additionally, urban planners can consider innovative funding mechanisms, such as value capture, tax increment financing, or public-private partnerships that can generate revenue or reduce costs for the project.

3 Build a strong case and network

The third step in securing funding for active transportation projects is to build a strong case and network for the project. This involves developing a clear and compelling narrative that showcases the need, the solution, the benefits, and the feasibility of the project, as well as the credibility and capacity of the project team. Urban planners can use various tools and methods, such as data analysis, storytelling, visualization, or participatory design, to illustrate and demonstrate the potential of active transportation to improve the quality of life and well-being of the community. Urban planners can also build a strong network of allies and supporters, such as local leaders, advocates, experts, or media outlets, that can endorse, promote, or collaborate on the project.

4 Address the challenges and risks

The fourth step in securing funding for active transportation projects is to address the challenges and risks that may arise during the project development and implementation. Some of the common challenges and risks include political opposition, public resistance, legal constraints, technical difficulties, or unforeseen circumstances. Urban planners can anticipate and mitigate these challenges and risks by conducting a thorough analysis of the context and stakeholders, engaging in proactive and inclusive consultation and communication, establishing clear and realistic expectations and timelines, and adopting flexible and adaptive approaches to deal with changes and uncertainties.

5 Monitor and evaluate the results

The fifth step in securing funding for active transportation projects is to monitor and evaluate the results of the project. This involves collecting and analyzing data and feedback on the performance and impact of the project, such as the changes in mode share, travel behavior, health outcomes, environmental indicators, or social equity. Urban planners can use various tools and methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, or sensors, to measure and report on the results of the project. Urban planners can also use the results to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the project, as well as the lessons learned and best practices for future projects. Moreover, urban planners can use the results to showcase the success and value of the project, as well as to secure further funding or support for scaling up or replicating the project.