With MAP-21 expiring in ­September 2014, APTA is busy working on what the next bill will look like. APTA is rolling out its RCA campaign (Research, Communications, and Advocacy) for 2013-2014 to strengthen awareness among Americans of public transportation’s value and to persuade Congress to fully invest in ­public transit and its infrastructure.

This year’s initiative builds on the “Public Transportation Takes Us There” program originally launched in 2008 with events, activities, and reports that emphasize the vital role of public transportation in economic development, jobs, and energy independence.

From promoting a new study on the impact of public transportation investment on residential real estate properties to coordinating the annual “Dump the Pump Day,” APTA’s activities focus on developing unified messages and programs to support national and local outreach. For example, APTA issues a monthly transit savings report that shows how much money an individual can save by taking public transportation. In addition to such regular reports, APTA is also developing a calendar of special events. Highlights through June follow:
  
March
APTA will distribute information related to public transportation infrastructure in conjunction with the 2013 report card published by the American Society of Civil Engineers that assesses the state of the nation’s infrastructure. (See related story.)

APTA’s policy department and the National Association of Realtors conducted new research that examines the impact of public transportation investments on residential real estate values. The report, The New Real Estate Mantra: Location Near Public Transportation, is scheduled for release on March 21. (See related story.)
  
April
To celebrate Earth Day on April 22, APTA will publicize the energy and environmental benefits of public transportation and highlight activities that many public transit systems conduct to heighten awareness of their environmentally friendly practices.

APTA’s Safety Comparisons Study will quantify public transit safety versus auto safety.

APTA will conduct a survey of its members to gauge the impact of state and local funding on public transit fares and service.
  
May
APTA will publicize the annual ­survey of public transit use by ­summer travelers, “Travel Like a Local.”

APTA will conduct a survey to assess the public’s support of high-speed rail and will incorporate data and messages in ongoing outreach activities.

APTA will highlight its efforts in workforce development as part of National Public Transportation Career Day, May 9.
  
June
June 20 is National Dump the Pump Day. This annual event is one of APTA’s largest outreach efforts to encourage individuals nationwide to try public transit.

APTA will issue its first quarter ­ridership report for Fiscal Year 2014.
  
Other efforts underway focus on surveying Americans to determine the best messages that resonate about public transit. This will be the basis for new communications and advertising materials that can be localized by members.

Activities focusing on grassroots activities and building stronger relationships with coalition partners will be detailed in future issues of Passenger Transport. In addition, APTA will continue to develop the campaign to take advantage of breaking news, special events, and emerging partnerships. For details, contact Mantill Williams.