APTA Urges Congress to Maintain Current Transit, Rail Investment Levels in FY 2027

APTA is urging congressional leaders to at least preserve current federal investment levels for public transit and passenger rail in any FY 2027 Continuing Resolution (CR) or Surface Transportation Authorization Extension Act.

In a letter sent July 31 to Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, APTA calls for at least $21.1 billion for public transit—including $4.25 billion in advance appropriations—and $15.9 billion for passenger and freight rail, including $13.2 billion in advance appropriations.

APTA warns that failing to continue advance appropriations would result in a 20 percent reduction in public transit funding and an 83 percent reduction in passenger rail investment compared with FY 2026 levels, while eliminating guaranteed funding for passenger rail programs. The association says such cuts would disrupt ongoing planning, engineering, and construction projects nationwide while creating uncertainty for state and local investment decisions.

The letter highlights several programs that would lose all guaranteed funding without advance appropriations, including the All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP), Capital Investment Grants (CIG), Railroad Crossing Elimination Grants, and the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Program. APTA notes that 49 CIG projects in 22 states are currently seeking $35.6 billion in future federal funding.

The association also warns of significant reductions to other core programs, including a 48 percent cut to Buses and Bus Facilities Grants, a 20 percent cut to State of Good Repair Formula Grants, and an 11 percent reduction to Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Formula Grants. State-by-state and urbanized area funding impacts are detailed in accompanying tables at the end of the full letter.

APTA emphasizes that sustained investment in public transportation strengthens the U.S. economy, noting that every $1 invested generates $5 in long-term economic returns. The association also points to the industry’s nationwide economic impact, supporting more than 3,000 suppliers in more than 1,700 communities and creating or sustaining more than 41,000 jobs for every $1 billion invested.

The letter also urges Congress to address any Highway Trust Fund shortfall if a CR or extension extends into FY 2027.