Chelsea Pickett English 402: Funding Memo

MEMORANDUM

TO: Dr. Jessica McCarthy
FROM: Chelsea Pickett, WSU student
DATE: October 10, 2013
SUBJECT: Available Grant for Biking Safety in Washington State

A funding source is required to implement changes for improved biking regulations, education,
and infrastructure in the town of Pullman. A survey of state and federal grants online found one
that meets our intended project. The Washington State Department of Transportations
(WSDOT) Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program provides funds for projects aimed at adding
pedestrian and bicycle paths, new safe routes from residential areas to schools and transit paths,
and education programs. The web location for the grant program is located at:
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/bike/call.htm
The Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program was started in 2005 after approval by the
Washington State legislature. In the 8 years that the program has been funded, $32 million has
been awarded for a total of 87 projects. The program intends to provide another $26 million in
funding between 2013 and 2015. The grant programs stated goals include an eventual target of
doubling the total number of people taking walking or biking trips, and decreasing the number of
injuries and deaths related to pedestrians and bikers.
There have been several projects that were recently recommended for funding. In one project
located in Redmond, WA, the proposers intend to build a new shared use path for pedestrians
and bikers, improvements for disability access to walking paths, and also way-finding signs that
make it easier for pedestrians and bikers to find the correct path. Another project, located in
Lynnwood, WA, installs new bike lanes connecting business and housing, and also starts a
bicycle safety education program in the area.
I think that this grant fits a project for Pullman that would improve bike and pedestrian
accessibility and education. Most of the grants funded by this program have additional side
funding from the city. Thus, WSU or Pullman would likely need to be enlisted as collaborators
and co-funders if the project were to be accepted. The program funds projects on an annual basis
that can be renewed. In this way, if satisfactory progress is being made on the project, more
money can be gained.
Chelsea Pickett English 402: Funding Memo

I believe that we should submit an application to this grant program for funding increased biking
regulations, construction of new paths, and additional biking education in Pullman.