Navigating MAP-21: Two Successful Workshops in Texas

Back in February, BikeTexas started talking to MPOs and advocates near Brownsville and in Austin, asking one crucial question: Would it be helpful to you to have a workshop focused on MAP-21 funding (the current national transportation bill) available for biking and walking?

The response was overwhelming. TxDOT and CAMPO immediately jumped on board in Austin, and in the Rio Grande Valley, three local MPOs—Brownsville, Harlingen-San Benito, and Hidalgo County—joined in, making it a truly regional event. Advocates and city staff in both areas were excited to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more.

The Advocacy Advance crew (made up of representatives of the League of American Bicyclists and the Alliance for Biking and Walking) visited Texas for one long weekend to present two Navigating MAP-21 workshops and wowed us with their expertise. If you couldn’t make it to the workshop, we missed you! You can access the presentations here and look through Advocacy Advance’s incredible library of resources here.

About 60 people from around the region attended the Brownsville workshop. Keynote speaker and Brownsville City Commissioner Dr. Rose Gowen impressed and inspired the crowd with her vision for a healthy Brownsville.

The Austin workshop drew a crowd of 89. Keynote speaker and City Council Member Chris Riley spoke about making Austin safe for all non-drivers, whether they are walking, biking, or using transit.

Finally, many attendees took to social media to share their takeaways from the day. See the BikeTexas Storify of both workshops (and follow these great folks on Twitter!) here.