National Dump the Pump Day is a day to highlight the many benefits of using public transportation. Delaware Transit Corporation (DTC) has announced that it will join over 150 public transit agencies nationwide participating in the 12th annual Dump the Pump Day on Thursday, June 15, to encourage the use for public transit. From urban to suburban to rural communities, public transportation is a vital resource to Americans. In fact, public transportation helps to make a community economically viable.
Sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), the 2017 National Dump the Pump Day is a day that encourages people to ride public transportation. Started in June 2006, when gas prices were $3 per gallon, this day emphasizes that public transportation is a convenient travel option that also helps people save money. The APTA’s April Transit Savings Report shows that a two person household that downsizes to one car can save on average more than $9,823 a year.
Public transportation is a cornerstone of local economies in urban, suburban and rural communities. In fact, every $1 invested in public transportation generates approximately $4 in economic returns, powering community growth and revitalization. Additionally, public transportation offers job access to millions of Americans; since nearly 60 percent of trips taken on public transit are work commutes.
Last, but not least, public transportation has a proven track record of reducing congestion and emissions. The latest research shows that in 2011, U.S. public transportation has a proven track record of reducing congestion through saving 856 million hours in travel time, 450 million gallons of fuel, and $21 billion in congestion costs in 498 urban areas.
“DART is increasing its use of alternative fuels through our paratransit propane bus program and is purchasing zero-emission electric buses to save fuel costs, reduce harmful emissions and improve public health and our environment,” said John T. Sisson, chief executive officer of DTC.
