[IMAGE]Grand-Canyon-boat-2.jpg[/IMAGE]National parks, forests and wildlife refuges across the U.S. will share $27 million in federal funds to improve public and alternative transportation within the grounds. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) selected 47 projects to receive funding from its Paul S. Sarbanes Transit In Parks program.

"This investment in our federal lands will give visitors, including persons with disabilities, more options for getting around while inside the parks," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "While making federal lands more accessible, it will also conserve energy and natural resources."

The U.S. National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management and local partner communities will receive funds for 47 projects, ranging from a comprehensive transportation planning study for the Kauai National Wildlife Refuge Complex in Hawaii to the implementation of ferry service at Salem Maritime Historic Preserve in Massachusetts.

[IMAGE]Denali-Moose-2.JPG[/IMAGE]Congress established the Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks program to enhance the protection of national parks and federal lands and increase the enjoyment of those visiting them. The grants will come primarily from Fiscal Year 2010 funds that had remained unallocated.

Administered by the FTA in partnership with the Department of the Interior and the Forest Service, the program funds capital and planning expenses for alternative transportation systems, such as shuttle buses and bicycle trails, in national parks and public lands. The goals of the program are to conserve natural, historical and cultural resources and reduce congestion and pollution.

For a complete list of projects, click here.