The purpose of this program is to encourage active modes of transportation, including bicycling and walking. The program seeks to increase the proportion of biking and walking trips and increase the safety and mobility of non-motrized users. This program intends to advance efforts to reduce greenhouse gases and enhance public health, including childhood obesity. Projects should ensure that disadvantaged communities fully share in the benefits. Eligible project types include infrastructure projects, active transportation plans in disadvantaged communities, non-infrastructure projects, and infrastructure projects with non-infrastructure components.

Tax-exempt private nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply for projects related to recreation trails. First priority for funding will go to cities, counties, country transportation commissions, regional transportation agencies, metropolitan planning organizations, school districts and transit agencies that do not have a bicycle plan, a pedestrian plan, a Safe Routes to School plan, or a comprehensive active transportation plan.