Changes for Bike & Pedestrian Grants, Oct. 2

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting public comments on changes to Oregon Administrative Rule language that governs grant funding for bicycle and pedestrian recreation and transportation projects in the department. The proposed rule changes are in reaction to a law enacted during the 2019 legislative session. The new law directs OPRD to work in cooperation with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to allocate up to $4 million per biennium for bicycle and pedestrian projects that meet recreation and transportation needs. The proposed rule changes would amend and adopt language that provides additional guidance on the application process and selection criteria for local government grants and prioritization of department spending on signature, scenic or recreational trail projects until the statute sunsets on Jan. 2, 2025. OPRD will accept public comments on the proposed change through 5 p.m. Nov. 4. Comments can be made online, in writing, via email or in-person at an upcoming public meeting: Online: oregon.gov/oprd/RULES/Pages/Rulemaking In writing: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, attn. Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301
Email: OPRD.publiccomment@oregon.gov In-person: 6 – 8 p.m. Oct. 29 in room 124 of the North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer St. NE, Salem. Agenda includes an overview of the proposed rule changes and an opportunity for public comment. Please arrive before 6:30 p.m. to sign-up to comment. After reviewing public comments, OPRD staff plan to present a final recommended rule for consideration by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission at its November 2019 or February 2020 business meeting. The full text of the proposed change is available online at oregon.gov/oprd/Rules/pages/index.aspx. Individuals who require special accommodations to attend the Oct. 29 meeting should contact Katie Gauthier, OPRD legislative and policy lead, at least three days in advance: Katie.Gauthier@oregon.gov or 503-947-8625.