November 29, 2001
The Honorable Tom Daschle
Senate Majority Leader
Office of the Senate Majority Leader
S-221 Capitol Building
Washington, DC 20510-7020
Dear Mr. Majority Leader:
On behalf of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and
its 1,400 member organizations, I write to urge you to include investment in public transportation as a component of any economic recovery package.
Investment in public transportation programs would provide immediate
economic benefits, including job creation, and help enhance national security. We recently surveyed our members about their security and infrastructure needs ready for immediate launch if funds were made available. In total, some $13.5 billion in public transportation projects could commence with stimulus funds from Congress. Our members also report an additional $4.4 billion in security needs, bringing the total potential investment to nearly $18 billion.
In that regard, APTA supports Senator Robert Byrd’s economic
stimulus proposal, which would include $1.1 billion for transit. Distributing $1 billion or more under the existing program mechanism would provide much needed capital for rolling stock and construction of new rail and bus systems, modernization programs, and other transit facilities. Funds could also be made available for the expenses associated with enhanced security in public transportation systems.
APTA firmly believes that an effective transportation system is one of
the most important underpinnings of a healthy, growing economy. If we may provide additional information, including a copy of our survey, please have your staff contact Rob Healy of our Government Affairs staff at (202) 496-4811 or rhealy@apta.com. Thank you for your consideration. We look forward to working with you in developing legislation to move America forward.
Sincerely yours,
William W. Millar
President
WWM/ked
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