(StatePoint) More than seven in 10 Americans support increased federal funding for the nation’s public transportation systems in communities of all sizes, according to a survey conducted by ORC International for the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).
This support is broad, according to the survey, spanning various age groups and political affiliations, with some of the highest numbers among Millennials ages 18 to 34 (77 percent) and individuals age 65 and older (76 percent).
Owning or having access to a private vehicle does not diminish this support, with 71 percent of car owners reporting that they want to see more federal investment in public transportation in both large and small communities. In addition, over half of respondents said public transit is important in attracting and retaining employers in their community
As Congress finalizes work on the Surface Transportation Bill, some experts are echoing the public sentiment.
“No matter where you live and work and what age you are, public transit provides vital access to jobs and everything a community has to offer,” says APTA President and CEO Michael P. Melaniphy. “We must ensure we provide for both large and smaller communities through growth of the federal transit program.”
To learn more, visit www.apta.com.
Experts say that with so many economic and cultural benefits that public transportation brings to a community, it’s no surprise that so many Americans support its funding.