The Houston Bicycle Advisory Committee meeting on July 23, 2025, focused on the development of the 2050 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), which aims to shape transportation policies and investments in the Houston area over the next two decades. Brandon Mosley, a principal planner with the Houston-Galveston Area Council (HGAC), presented the initial phase of public outreach for the RTP, emphasizing the need for community input, particularly from the cycling community.

Mosley highlighted that the RTP must be updated every four years to comply with federal law, with the current plan set to expire on November 1, 2027. He stressed the importance of gathering feedback from local stakeholders to ensure that the cycling community's needs and visions are adequately represented in the planning process. Public meetings are scheduled in various counties, including Harris County, with opportunities for virtual participation available.

The committee discussed the ongoing concerns from downtown hotels regarding bike lanes, particularly the bike lane on Lamar, which has faced criticism from establishments like the Four Seasons. This issue underscores the ongoing tension between urban development and cycling infrastructure.

Mosley encouraged committee members to engage their networks and promote upcoming public meetings and surveys to ensure broad participation. He provided resources for outreach, including a partner toolkit with promotional materials to facilitate community involvement.

The meeting concluded with a call for active participation from the cycling community to shape a more inclusive and effective transportation plan for the region. The next steps involve continued public outreach and the selection of a consultant to assist in the RTP's development.