NCHRP Research Report 1149: Estimating Benefits of Closing Gaps in Active Transportation Networks: A Guide provides practical methods for evaluating the benefits of projects that improve connectivity in walking, bicycling, and rolling networks. Active transportation systems—including trails, sidewalks, bike lanes, and connected roadways—play a critical role in supporting safe, convenient travel for both recreation and everyday trips, yet many communities face fragmented networks with significant gaps. This guide offers accessible analytical approaches that can be applied across diverse geographies and project types, using publicly available datasets and research-based multipliers. Designed for broad usability, the methods rely primarily on national-level data sources to help agencies consistently estimate economic, safety, health, and mobility benefits.

NCHRP Web-Only Document 426, which accompanies the report, documents the development of the guide and summarizes the full research effort behind the recommended methodologies.