HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) has officially launched the application process for the 2025-26 WalkWorks Active Transportation Planning Program. This initiative aims to empower communities across the state to develop plans that promote physical activity through improved pedestrian, bicycling, and public transit networks. By enhancing accessibility and safety, the program seeks to foster healthier lifestyles while meeting the diverse mobility needs of residents.
“Anyone using our public roads and sidewalks should be able to easily get where they need to go, whenever and however they choose,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “To help meet the needs of all Pennsylvanians, we encourage municipalities to make all modes of transportation safer and more accessible. WalkWorks exists for exactly this purpose, to provide the guidance and funding to help municipalities create a community that promotes and encourages exercise as part of daily life.”
Goals of the Program
The WalkWorks Active Transportation Planning Program is designed to address several pressing public health and societal issues. By improving pedestrian, bicycle, and transit infrastructure, the initiative encourages more frequent physical activity, which is critical for reducing obesity and other chronic health conditions.
Beyond its health benefits, the program emphasizes the creation of equitable and sustainable transportation systems. Improved activity-friendly spaces aim to reduce traffic congestion, lower environmental pollution, and stimulate local economies by enhancing connectivity to businesses and community hubs. The program underscores the importance of offering mobility options for all residents, regardless of age, physical ability, or socioeconomic background.
The initiative also supports the Pennsylvania State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP), which emphasizes increasing access to exercise opportunities as a means to promote healthy weight and improve mental well-being. Walking, for instance, has been proven effective in alleviating stress, depression, and mood swings, contributing to overall community wellness.
Eligibility and Funding
The program invites all Commonwealth municipalities to apply for funding aimed at creating transportation plans that prioritize active travel. Proposed plans should enhance pedestrian access, incorporate bicycle-friendly paths, improve ADA accessibility, and strengthen public transit networks.
Funding for the program is made possible through the Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant, provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additional funding is sourced from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) through the Environmental Stewardship Fund. The Pennsylvania Downtown Center administers all grant awards.
Application Details and Process
Applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM on March 21, 2025. An optional one-hour informational webinar will be held on Wednesday, February 4, at 12:00 PM to guide prospective applicants through the process and address any questions. Interested parties are encouraged to register for the session in advance.
The selection of awardees will be based on the quality of their proposals, the amount of funding requested, and each municipality’s demonstrated ability to meet the grant criteria. The number of awards provided will depend on available funding and the volume of applications received. Selected applicants will be notified in June 2025, with the grant term running from July 2025 through June 2026.
Building a Healthier, More Accessible Commonwealth
The WalkWorks Active Transportation Planning Program represents a concerted effort by the DOH and its partners to prioritize physical health, environmental sustainability, and economic vitality. This initiative allows communities throughout Pennsylvania to access critical resources that make walking, biking, and public transit safer and more appealing transportation options.
By working to ensure these transportation improvements are available to all, regardless of demographic or geographic barriers, the program aligns with its commitment to equity. Through this initiative, Pennsylvania continues to advance solutions that benefit residents’ health and well-being while fostering more connected and active communities.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.