Disaster Relief Mobilization Study: Content for Report to Congress
Source: Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
Section 11505 of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (P.L. 117-58) authorized the Disaster Relief Mobilization Study (DRMS). The BIL required “a study to determine the utility of incorporating the use of bicycles into the disaster preparedness and disaster response plans of local communities.” This report to Congress summarizes the work and findings of the DRMS. The DRMS has three main components, and companion reports focusing on each are available separately: (1) An assessment of the most vulnerable links of active transportation systems that are at risk of disasters, including adapting and applying the Federal Vulnerability Assessment and Adaptation Framework methodology; (2) A feasibility evaluation of disaster preparedness and response planning procedures, which included a broad review of community response planning, to determine the critical role that bicycles can play; and (3) An assessment of existing training programs related to law enforcement, first responders, or other agencies that rely on bicycles for disaster response. Study findings suggest bicycles are a valuable but underleveraged resource in disaster response. The absence of planning for their use in disaster response is limiting opportunities for improved outcomes for those affected by disasters. Suggested next steps are relatively low investment and include planning, vulnerability assessments, and preparedness activities.
