American Jobs Are On The Line

February 11, 2004
For Immediate Release

Contact: Virginia Miller
(202) 496-4816
vmiller@apta.com

(Download In Adobe PDF Format)

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) commends the Senate for advancing a bipartisan TEA 21 reauthorization bill, which includes increased funding for investment in America's transportation infrastructure. Increased investment in public transportation will stimulate the economy, create jobs, and reduce traffic congestion and pollution.

"Jobs in the transportation industry are long-term, high-paying jobs&##133;the kind of jobs America needs now more than ever," said William W. Millar, President of APTA, at a TEA 21 reauthorization event held today by the Senate leadership.

APTA applauds the bipartisan leadership of the Senate Banking, Environment & Public Works, Finance, and Commerce Committees for developing a bill that would provide funding guarantees to ensure effective, long-range planning of public transportation projects.

"Guaranteed funding allows for rational planning and implementation of projects, and helps to establish strong public-private partnerships that create real jobs," said Millar.

Some of the specific economic benefits that result from investment in public transportation include:

• Transit generates jobs and a 6-to-1 return on investment. Every $1 billion invested generates 47,500 jobs;
• Transit relieves traffic congestion and improves business productivity;
• Transit reduces energy consumption and achieves clean air standards;
• Transit stimulates economic development around stations;
• Transit helps maintain the vitality of our nation's business centers; and,
• Transit connects workers to jobs in urban, suburban and rural areas.

"American jobs are on the line," said Millar. "S. 1072 will create jobs. America needs more jobs now."

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APTA is a nonprofit international association of more than 1,500 member organizations including public transportation systems; planning, design, construction and finance firms; product and service providers; academic institutions, and state associations and departments of transportation. APTA members serve the public interest by providing safe, efficient and economical public transportation services and products. Over ninety percent of persons using public transportation in the United States and Canada are served by APTA members.