Passenger Transport Express - 07/17/2015 (Plain Text Version)NEWS HEADLINESAnother Funding Deadline, Another Extension ... But What's Next?
The U.S. House of Representatives easily passed (312 yeas to 119 nays) on July 15 an extension of surface transportation spending through Dec. 18. The current extension expires July 31. APTA Keeps Up the Pressure
APTA is continuing to spotlight the urgency of a long-term funding bill. We are running print and radio advertising inside the Beltway, using traditional and social media to publicize key messages and urging more allies to join Voices for Public Transit. FTA Weighs In on Funding Deadline
In a letter to Congress, FTA Acting Administrator Therese McMillan reminded lawmakers this week that if surface transportation funding is not extended by July 31, “no new contract authority will be available for capital projects, essential maintenance or operational support.” She stated that the Administration’s request for a six-year, $478 billion surface transportation reauthorization will increase overall transportation investment by 45 percent. [return to top] Americans Support Using Tax Dollars To Improve Public Transit
APTA released a survey this week that shows more than 75 percent of Americans support using tax dollars to create, expand and improve public transportation in their communities. Roughly 7 in 10 respondents said Congress should increase federal spending for public transit, and more than 8 in 10 believe public transit provides a vital connection to jobs, schools and medical care. [return to top] 2015 White House Conference on Aging
APTA President & CEO Michael Melaniphy represented the public transportation industry at the White House Conference on Aging in Washington, DC on July 13. A balanced transportation system with a variety of mobility options was discussed as a strategy to help older adults remain actively engaged in their communities. President Obama appeared at the event, which was last held in 2005. [return to top] ADA's 25th Anniversary is Sunday, July 26
Watch for Passenger Transport's special supplement on the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act next week. SAVE THE DATESpecial Tours at 2015 Annual Meeting
APTA's 2015 Annual Meeting, October 4-7 in San Francisco, will offer 14 different tours of public transit projects and services in and around the “city by the bay.” The early registration rate for APTA members is available until Aug. 28. Sign up now for this premier event in one of the world's most beautiful, transit-friendly cities. [return to top] IN THE MEDIA
Editorial: "Congress faces a highway funding cliff. But there's a simple solution." With America’s infrastructure in disrepair and the Highway Trust Fund nearly out of money, The Washington Post's editorial argues that raising the gas tax is the best solution. |