Passenger Transport Express - 12/24/2009 (Plain Text Version)News HeadlinesCongress, President Extend Authorization Two More Months via Defense Bill
On December 16, the U.S. Senate passed a Fiscal Year 2010 appropriations bill funding the Department of Defense, which also extends the authorization of federal transit and highway programs through February 28. Funding under this extension is set at FY 2009 levels. President Barack Obama signed the bill into law on December 21. Holiday Message from the Chair
Dear APTA Members: As we celebrate this holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to wish all of you the best. According to the saying, sometimes we take the bitter with the sweet. We are all facing challenges posed by our difficult economic times, but it is my hope that we can still revel in the sweetness of family and friends. It continues to be my honor to serve as your APTA Chair. This is a glorious ride so far; I’m looking forward to what 2010 has in mind! So after gifting and toasting and roasting (for those of you who have fireplaces!), let’s move into a new decade with the drive and enthusiasm that makes our industry excel. And let’s continue to tell our story to all who will listen! Much joy, M.P. Carter [return to top] APTA 2010 Calendar Available Monday
The 2010 APTA Calendar, featuring 12 images of APTA member public transit agencies and business members, highlights the benefits public transportation has for the nation, communities, and individuals. The calendar will be available to members through the APTA Web site on December 28. [return to top] Save the Date
The holiday Congressional recess is the perfect time to make your voice heard in the fight for much-needed investment in public transit—by participating in APTA's Telling Your Story to Congress District Days event. APTA members will meet with senators and representatives January 6-8, just before they return to Washington. The timing is critical; with surface transportation authorization extended only through February, members of Congress must make long-term authorization an immediate priority. A forthcoming jobs bill is also an opportunity for lawmakers to make the most of public transportation's job benefits. [return to top] In the Media
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood was interviewed on The Daily Show With Jon Stewart. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman James L. Oberstar (D-MN) joined Ranking Member John L. Mica (R-FL), APTA President William Millar, and former Maryland Governor Parris Glendening in a National Journal Transportation blog on rail safety. The Chicago Tribune reported that a new documentary will examine the role of public transit in reshaping the way Americans travel. |