APTA Joins Global Partners to Celebrate Inaugural World Public Transport Day

4/17/2026

APTA joins the public transportation community in more than 100 countries to mark the inaugural World Public Transport Day, a global initiative led by UITP (the International Association of Public Transport) to be observed annually.

“World Public Transport Day is a powerful reminder that public transportation connects people to opportunity and drives economic vitality,” said APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. “APTA is proud to stand with our global partners to celebrate the essential role public transportation plays in building stronger, more vibrant communities.”

APTA released an independent Economic Impact Study that found that every $1 billion invested in public transportation generates $5 billion in long-term economic value and sustains 41,400 jobs across construction, manufacturing, operations, and supplier industries. APTA’s Surface Transportation Authorization Recommendations call on Congress to provide $138 billion for public transit and $130 billion for passenger rail over the next five years.

The case for investment is on display this summer as well: the 2026 World Cup is the equivalent of hosting 45 Super Bowls within 39 days across 11 U.S. cities, with public transit agencies across those host cities preparing to move millions of fans safely and efficiently.

To join the global conversation, follow #WorldPublicTransportDay.