APTA Echoes U.S. Chamber's Call to Modernize Transportation Infrastructure

The following is a statement by Paul P. Skoutelas, APTA president and CEO;

"As the Trump Administration and Congress focus on proposals for investing in the nation's infrastructure in the coming weeks, the American Public Transportation Association stands with the U.S. Chamber, the business community, and other transportation organizations in addressing the urgent need to modernize America's aging surface transportation infrastructure.

"More than $90 billion is needed just to bring the nation's public transportation systems into a state of good repair, according to the Federal Transit Administration. In fact, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave the nation's public transit infrastructure a D minus – which is the lowest rating of any surface transportation mode in their analysis.

"APTA believes the infrastructure bill is the best near-term opportunity to ensure the long-term solvency of the Highway Trust Fund and the surface transportation programs it funds. APTA supports increasing the federal gas tax to provide for sustained and dedicated revenues.

"Increased investment in public transportation through an infrastructure initiative will be a boon for the U.S. economy. For every dollar communities invest in public transportation, approximately $4 is generated in economic returns. Seventy-three percent of government investment in public transit flows through the private sector, supporting millions of jobs.

"Americans across the country deserve a public transit and highway network that is safe, reliable, and meets the demands of a 21st century economy. Congress and the Administration have an opportunity to put forth an infrastructure plan that our communities and economy desperately need."