APTA calls on Congress to fund transportation projects to create jobs and stimulate economy

Federal Funding of $8 Billion Would Start 559 Public Transit Projects and Create Economic Benefits

Washington, D.C. – The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) called on Congress October 28 to pass economic stimulus legislation that includes funding public transportation projects to create new jobs. APTA has identified 559 public transit “ready-to-go” projects, worth $8 billion.

Pointing out that every $1 communities invest in public transportation generates approximately $6 in economic returns, APTA Chair Dr. Beverly Scott urged Congress to move forward with an economic stimulus package that recognizes the value of investing in our nation’s public transportation infrastructure.

Scott said the projects, from 170 public transit systems, could start within 90 days of federal funding being made available. The economic stimulus legislation is also needed to provide additional infrastructure to meet the rapidly growing demand for public transportation.

Public transportation use has grown by 32% since 1995, a figure that is more than double the growth rate of the population (13 percent) and up substantially over the growth rate for the vehicle miles traveled on the nation’s highways (24 percent). Last year 10.3 billion trips were taken on U.S. public transportation – the highest number of trips taken in 50 years. In the first quarter of 2008, transit ridership grew by 3.4% and in the second quarter of 2008, ridership grew by 5.2%.

“Expanding public transportation services and creating much needed American jobs now can both be accomplished through the passage of an economic stimulus package,” said APTA President William W. Millar. “Transportation studies show that $1 billion of federal investment creates about 35,000 jobs.

“Beyond creating jobs, investing in public transit serves other important national goals,” said Millar. “Public transportation provides more affordable travel options for Americans and helps us meet our national goals of energy independence and reduction of carbon dioxide emissions to combat climate change.”

For more information:

Click here to read the congressional written testimony submitted by APTA Chair Dr. Beverly Scott to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

Click here for more information on the critical role public transportation plays in helping the United States become energy independent.

Click here for more information on the how public transportation reduces carbon emissions.

APTA is a nonprofit international association of more than 1,500 member organizations including public transportation systems; planning, design, construction and finance firms; product and service providers; academic institutions; and state associations and departments of transportation. APTA members serve the public interest by providing safe, efficient and economical public transportation services and products. APTA members serve more than 90 percent of persons using public transportation in the United States and Canada.