Valley Regional Transit and partners April 9 called upon Congress to renew funding for the federal transportation bill, Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), which is set to expire on May 31.
On the national level a new analysis from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) shows that more than $227 billion in economic productivity is at risk to the nation’s economy over the next six years without long-term federal investment in public transportation.
“I am deeply concerned about the uncertainty we face without long-term, sustainable investment in public transportation,” said Executive Director of Valley Regional Transit Kelli Fairless. “Without a long-term federal funding bill, it is impossible for us to plan for the future, even as we struggle to keep our transportation services in a state of good repair. Valley Regional Transit strongly urges the U.S. Congress to enact a new multi-year authorization bill that provides dedicated funding through the Highway Trust Fund to help grow our local economy.”
With the future of America’s public transportation and road network in jeopardy, Valley Regional Transit and other local transportation agencies have joined transportation and community leaders from across the country for “Stand Up for Transportation Day.” Sponsored by APTA, with support from national and local partners from various transportation modes, business and community oriented interests, Stand Up for Transportation Day has united more than 240 participating organizations in communities across the country to urge federal officials to support the passage of a long-term, sustainable and reliable federal transportation funding bill.
APTA noted that the nation faces a $160 billion backlog just to bring public transportation and road systems into a state of good repair. The lack of a long-term federal funding bill creates local funding uncertainty which jeopardizes transportation project planning and discourages private sector investment. With a lack of a commitment on the federal level, that stifles local business investment and job creation.
“A long-term federal commitment to our public transportation and road infrastructure is needed in order to create jobs and boost economic development right here in Idaho.” Stated Amanda Ely, director of the Targhee Regional Public Transportation Authority (TRPTA). “The transportation system is the life blood of the community and it connects employers to employees and provides a vital connection for people from all walks of life.”
