APTA Issues Statement on USDOT Highway Trust Fund Proposals

In light of two USDOT funding proposals recently sent to the White House budget office, APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas released a statement saying: “On behalf of the millions of riders, workers, businesses, and communities that rely on public transit every day, we urge President Trump to reject the U.S. Department of Transportation’s misguided proposals to eliminate the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund and prohibit States from using their highway funds for public transit.

“These reckless proposals would devastate Americans in cities, suburbs, and rural communities across the country—cutting off critical transit services that provide access to jobs, healthcare, and education. President Trump is a builder and knows smart investments—every $1 invested in public transit generates $5 in long-term economic returns and 77 percent of federal investments flow to the private sector. We believe he recognizes the power of transit investment to strengthen American competitiveness; create family-wage jobs and increase opportunities for working-class people; ensure safe, secure, and accessible transportation; and foster innovation by supporting cutting-edge technologies.

“Let’s work together to grow America’s economy for everyone.”