Investment in public transit critical – enhances mobility for all
WASHINGTON, DC: Larry Hanley, international president of the
Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), released the following statement in
response to the submission to Congress of President Obama’s multi-year
surface transportation reauthorization proposal – the Generating
Renewal, Opportunity, and Work with Accelerated Mobility, Efficiency,
and Rebuilding of Infrastructure and Communities throughout America
(GROW AMERICA) Act.
“The Amalgamated Transit Union urges Congress to
pass President Obama’s proposed transportation reauthorization bill –
the GROW AMERICA Act – as soon as possible to address the mounting
public transit crisis threatening the economic future of our country.
“Our nation needs a comprehensive transportation
bill that sets forth a major urban agenda to address our exploding urban
populations, worsening traffic jams, young people forgoing cars, and
stressed public transit systems.
“The president’s proposal to invest $72 billion
in transit systems and expanded transportation options sends a clear
message to Congress that public transit matters to the American people.
We need to invest in smart public transit initiatives to prevent
America from falling behind our global competitors, and keep our cities
and towns running. Public transit when done well has been and continues
to be a great ladder of opportunity for all.
“There are idle buses, bus stops without service
and people who need to get to and from their job. The current
infrastructure is already there. There is no shovel required to improve
public transit.
“Not only does public transit provide reliable
mobility for everyone for years to come, it creates good jobs and
delivers customers to businesses. For every $1 invested in public
transportation, $4 in economic returns is generated. It helps fight
pollution and traffic. More people riding buses mean fewer cars on the
road and less emissions. Buses emit 80 percent less carbon monoxide than
a car.
“We need Congress to start thinking big
when it comes to public transit and pass the GROW America Act, which
will enhance mobility for all of us.”
