More Transit Projects, But Less Service For Region

The Pennsauken Transit Center (in light blue) would connect the Atlantic City Rail Line, River Line light rail, and local buses — all of which are facing cutbacks in service.

On Friday, Vice President Biden and USDOT Secretary LaHood announced funding for 191 new Recovery Act transit projects in 42 states.  Unfortunately, this final round [...]

More Momentum Behind Federal Smart Growth Programs

One of the Obama administration’s key transportation initiatives has been connecting land use and transportation planning to foster walkable communities instead of sprawl. Recent momentum for the effort has come from both Congress and the White House.  Rep. Ed Perlmutter (D-CO) has introduced the House version of Senator Dodd (D-CT)’s Livable Communities Act, while Rep. [...]

Jobs Bill Has Uncertain Ramifications For Transit

A federal jobs bill could help support needed investment in transit projects and service across the country.

With the one-year anniversary of the federal stimulus last week, policymakers and advocates have cited infrastructure-related job creation numbers in support of a transportation-heavy “jobs bill.”  Only 6% of the original stimulus ($46 billion out of $787 billion) [...]

Transit Agencies, Unions Make Joint Push for Federal Operating Support

Transit riders across the country are facing higher fares and reduced service.

More voices are calling on Congress to increase federal support for transit agencies that continue to grapple with fare hikes and service cuts. The Community Transportation Association of America, which represents small transit agencies across the country, and the Amalgamated Transit Union recently [...]

Stimulus Instead of Service Cuts?

After successfully winning a $2 billion financing solution earlier in June, transit riders, elected officials and MTA board members alike are frustrated by the nearly $400 million budget shortfall at the end of the year. According to MTA CFO Gary Dellaverson, the unforeseen deficit is the result of lower than expected revenue from the payroll [...]

City Transportation Officials Open Clearinghouse of Bike Design Practices

This week the National Association of City Transportation Officials launched Cities for Cycling, a new effort by city governments to promote best practices in urban cycling and to increase the use of bicycles to improve mobility and public health while reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.

NYC's 9th Ave. separated bike lane has been [...]

For Creating Jobs, Transit Operating Aid is Best Bet

As the country grapples with rising unemployment rates, Congressional leaders are beginning to consider passage of a “jobs bill” that could reportedly include anything from tax credits for new hires to infrastructure. A recent report by the American Public Transportation Association shows that investment in transit — and in transit operating aid especially — should [...]

Federal Policy: Six Bills to Watch

While it remains unclear when Congress will make progress on the re-authorization of the federal transportation bill, here are six bills TSTC supports that are worth mentioning to your congressperson. All may move forward as standalone legislation, or get rolled into the broader re-authorization.

Livable Communities Act (S. 1619 / H.R. 3734) – Gives local governments [...]

Bicycle and Pedestrian Projects Eligible for $373M in Federal Health Grants

Making it more convenient to walk and bike can help public health.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Department of Health and Human Services  recently announced a landmark initiative that communities can use to connect public health with active transportation. Communities Putting Prevention to Work will provide $650 million in stimulus funds to support [...]