Recently, ASLA submitted formal comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) in response to its request for information on surface transportation in its public notice, Advancing a Surface Transportation Proposal that Focuses on America’s Most Fundamental Needs.

ASLA’s recommendations emphasize the importance of designing transportation systems that are safe, efficient, resilient, and accessible for all users. The comments reflect ASLA’s commitment to advancing federal transportation policies that enhance public health, foster economic growth, and create sustainable, people-centered communities. 

ASLA urges U.S. DOT and Congress to work together on a final surface transportation reauthorization measure that will

• Enhance transportation safety by
  • Integrating nature-based solutions into transportation projects to reduce flooding, prevent erosion, and make infrastructure more resilient.
  • Supporting the Complete Streets Act of 2025, ensuring roads accommodate pedestrians, bicyclists, public transit users, and people of all abilities.
  • Expanding funding for the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program to help communities design safer, more accessible corridors.     
   

• Promote economic growth through expanded capacity and mobility, and congestion relief by
  • Increasing investment in the Transportation Alternatives (TA) program to provide cost-effective active transportation options like biking and walking.
  • Strengthening the Recreational Trails Program to support more than 30,000 trail projects nationwide.
  • Bolstering the Safe Routes to Schools program to improve walking and biking infrastructure and ensure safer commutes for students.     
   

• Strengthen partnerships with stakeholders by
  • Encouraging closer collaboration between DOT and the National Park Service (NPS) by increasing dedicated funding to maintain and improve park roads, bridges, trails, and transit systems.
  • Promoting coordination with federal, state, and local partners to ensure transportation systems serve community needs.     
        

Landscape architects play a vital role in designing multimodal transportation systems that balance mobility, safety, and environmental stewardship. By submitting these comments, ASLA reinforces its commitment to advancing federal policies that create healthier, more connected, and more resilient communities.