79R2474 MTB-F

By:  Hilderbran                                                   H.B. No. 2903


A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the development of bicycle tourism trails in this state. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter K, Chapter 201, Transportation Code, is amended by adding Section 201.9025 to read as follows: Sec. 201.9025. TEXAS BICYCLE TOURISM TRAILS. (a) If the department establishes a bicycle advisory committee, the committee shall advise and make recommendations to the commission on the development of bicycle tourism trails in this state. Recommendations on bicycle tourism trails developed under this section: (1) shall be made in consultation with the Parks and Wildlife Commission and the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office; (2) shall reflect the geography, scenery, history, and cultural diversity of this state; (3) shall maximize federal and private sources of funding for the designation, construction, improvement, maintenance, and signage of the trails and the promotion of bicycle tourism; and (4) may include multiuse trails to accommodate equestrians, pedestrians, and other nonmotorized trail users when practicable. (b) The department may contract with a statewide bicycle nonprofit organization for assistance in identifying, developing, promoting, or coordinating agreements and participation among political subdivisions of this state to advance bicycle tourism trails. SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2005.