2025 Legislative Positions
The Greenways Foundation is proud to announce the release of our 2025 Legislative Positions, outlining our policy priorities and advocacy goals for the year ahead. As a leader in promoting trails, greenways, and sustainable outdoor spaces across Indiana, we remain committed to advancing initiatives that enhance access to green infrastructure, support active transportation, and preserve our state’s natural beauty for generations to come. This year’s legislative positions reflect our dedication to fostering partnerships, influencing impactful policies, and ensuring that Indiana’s greenways continue to thrive as vital community resources. Join us in advocating for a greener, healthier future!
$30 million support for trail projects
The legislature has generously funded Next Level Trail projects throughout Indiana. However, only 1/3 of the projects were selected through the competitive process. Approximately $250 million of projects were NOT funded.
Percentage of trail money for rehabilitation and maintenance
As Indiana becomes a leader with its enviable trail system, some of the earlier trails are facing rehabilitation and maintenance issues. A percentage of trail money should be used to keep our trails among the best in the nation.
Complete the Great American Rail-Trail through Indiana
The Great American Rail-Trail, a project envisioned and pursued by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, stands as an inspiring and ambitious endeavor aimed at facilitating alternative transportation across the nation, spanning from the Atlantic to the Pacific. It's worth noting that Indiana, often referred to as the Crossroads of America, occupies a central position along this trail. A substantial portion, 122 miles, of the Indiana segment of this project has already been successfully finished! We invite your support in completing the remaining 95.7 miles of the Great American Rail-Trail within Indiana.
Cultivate Active Transportation
Active transportation, such as walking and cycling, promotes physical fitness and contributes to a healthier population by encouraging regular exercise. It reduces traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions, making it an environmentally sustainable mode of transportation. Active transportation fosters a sense of community, as it encourages people to interact with their surroundings, neighbors, and local businesses, enhancing the overall livability of an area. Enhance the local government's capacity to realize Complete Streets initiatives and successfully complete ongoing active transportation projects.
Enhance Safety of Trails
As communities continue to develop trails, safety must be a top priority. Trails themselves can be a safer alternative, through programs like Safe Routes to Schools and Safe Streets and Roads for All. The Indiana General Assembly should be commended for adopting a statewide 3-foot bicycle passing law. Additional measures, such as incentives for separating the trail from the roadway, should be considered if they prioritize the safety of trail users.
Improve Recreational Use Statute
The Indiana Recreational Use Statute has provided comfort and liability protection to property owners on publicly used trails for more than 40 years. The legislature should adopt improvements to this statute and clarify liability protection so the public will continue to be invited to enjoy Indiana’s great trails.
