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| October 11, 2013 |
| NEWS HEADLINES |
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Government Shutdown Continues; Talks Underway
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The federal government shutdown continues through a second week. According to news reports, President Obama and congressional leaders have been in talks recently on issues ranging from a resolution on raising the debt ceiling to a possible continuing resolution funding the federal government.
According to the DOT, during the shutdown FTA has four people designated as "essential" to perform "life and safety" activities authorized in MAP-21 and "oversee the lawful continuation of other functions." Additionally, FTA is unable to obligate grants or make payments to grantees. FTA customarily reimburses public transit agencies for ongoing
operations and construction projects to enable them to provide services and pay employees and contractors. October is typically a month where grantees request substantial reimbursements.
APTA has asked for specific information from its members on the impact the shutdown is having on their systems. To share your information, please contact Christian Richards. |
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APTA Transit Savings Report Finds Big Fall Savings
According to APTA's October Transit Savings Report, individuals who ride public transportation instead of driving can save, on average, more than $832 this month, and $9,986 annually. Over the course of a year, parking costs for a vehicle alone can amount to an average of $1,995.
SAVE THE DATE
Mark your schedules for APTA's 2014 major meetings and conferences! Dates are set for everything from the Business Members' Board of Governors Annual Business Meeting to the Bus & Paratransit Conference to the Annual Meeting and EXPO.
IN THE MEDIA
Voters in Raleigh, NC, approved a $75 million transportation bond issue by a 40-point margin on Oct. 8, setting the stage for a series of public transportation projects. The plan calls for improved bus stops, more buses, and faster services, among other initiatives.
Living close to a Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority rail station improves property values, according to a new study. Houses in the communities studied are worth $31,100 to $37,300 more than similar homes located more than three miles away from a station.
Light rail is bringing an apartment boom to parts of Charlotte, NC. The LYNX light rail line is the engine behind much of the new construction happening in the city's South End.
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