I agree with Shootingstar that costs are probably a big part of the issue.

With oil costs going up, the cost of asphalt (which contains I think 25% oil) become much higher too. I heard on NPR when we were in Oregon that many counties could not afford to pay for their usual road refections (which should be about 1/7th of their network every year) because of the costs. Obviously, bike routes would come last under these circumstances... especially as long as bike routes are considered "recreational."

There are many ways to argue against that, and I do think a public group of citizens could do something to help.

Good luck - I am sure you'll find some expertise around here to help as needed... or at least encouragement!