Funding for bicycle infrastructure is a core component of our advocacy agenda. Bicycle infrastructure in Wisconsin is often viewed as a luxury or an afterthought, to be included only when the infrastructure for motor vehicles has been completed and perfected. Consequently, bicycle funding is often one of the first items in our state's budget to get eliminated whenever money gets tight.

At the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, we couldn't disagree more. That's why educating our state's elected officials, planners and engineers on the importance of a well-funded bicycle infrastructure is a top priority for us. We believe that Wisconsinites should have freedom of choice in transportation.

A well-funded bicycle infrastructure gives people the choice to spend less on transportation - saving money on gas, insurance and automobile maintenance when they substitute some car trips with bicycle trips. It allows people to pursue a lifetime of health, fitness and self-improvement. The Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin is committed to securing increased bicycle funding, and continuing to educate our leaders about the value and return on investment for bicycle infrastructure funding.

Visit our Legislative Sucesses page to learn about the $5 million in increased bicycle funding that the Bike Fed helped secure for Wisconsin in the state's 2009-2011 biennial budget.

Overview of Bicycle Funding Sources
Bicycle facilities, both on-street and off, are funding through a variety of sources. Eligibility for most federal aid programs for bicycle infrastructure is determined by the transportation component, rather than the recreational component, of the project. A notable exception to this rule is the Recreational Trails Program.

State funding for the construction of bicycle facilities both on-street and off is available through programs administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), and includes funds provided directly by the state, as well as "pass-through" funds provided by the federal government.

Please click on a sub-category to the left to learn more about various types of bicycle funding.