AVTA Rally Focuses on Transportation Infrastructure Funding
The Antelope Valley Transit Authority (AVTA), in conjunction with other transit agencies across America, will be participating in the nationwide "Stand Up For Transportation Day" on April 9. Sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), with support from national and local partners from transportation organizations, business and community oriented interests, Stand Up For Transportation Day will unite the voices of 216 participating organizations in more than 140 communities across the country to focus on the urgency of the passage of a long-term, federal transportation bill by Congress.
In support of this nationwide effort, AVTA will be holding a rally and press conference onApril 9 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Palmdale Transportation Center. U.S. Congressman Steve Knight, along with other representatives at the federal, state, county, and local levels, is scheduled to speak during the press conference about the impending May 31 expiration of MAP-21, the current federal transportation funding bill. The focus of the rally will be to send a clear message to Congress that a long-term investment in transportation infrastructure is urgently needed.
"Stand Up For Transportation Day is a single day when all transportation organizations and their coalition partners unite in common purpose with a unified message," said APTA Chair Phillip Washington, general manager and CEO of Denver's Regional Transportation District. "It's time to set aside partisanship and once again act in the best interest of our country to repair, strengthen, and build transportation infrastructure."
The AVTA rally, which is open to the public, will feature live entertainment from local band Bedford Park, as well as food, raffle prizes, and a photo booth. The AVTA all-electric zero emission bus will be parked front and center, and open for those who want to climb aboard and take a look. Information will be available for anyone interested in getting more involved in the nationwide movement dedicated to supporting public transportation, “Voices For Public Transit”.
"Transportation is the backbone of our local and national economy," said AVTA Board Chair Norm Hickling. "The passage of a long-term transportation bill is critical for expanded transportation options. This event is an opportunity for residents of the Antelope Valley to have their voices heard, and to help effect real change in the public transit services of this community, and across the nation."
