On behalf of its more than 1500 members and concerned citizens from across the United States, The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) will convene on Washington at 11:00am on Wednesday September 22, 2010 to urge Congress to increase funding for public transportation by passing a multi-year surface transportation bill. 

On the heels of President Obama’s recent call for funding the nation’s infrastructure improvements and the Chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, U.S. Representative James Oberstar’s proposal for support for investing in our infrastructure, citizens and public transit agencies across the country are seeking further commitment from the federal government for support for these systems.  APTA and the citizens will present a national petition signed by Americans in every state. 

It has been nearly one year since the expiration of SAFETEA-LU, the previous multi-year bill. APTA and public transportation officials, as well as supporters will share their stories of how public transit impacts getting to work, putting people to work and the overall quality of life for all Americans. 

Who:  U.S. Rep James Oberstar, (D-MN), chairman, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee 
            U. S. Rep Steve Cohen, (D-TN)
            Richard R. Sarles, interim general manager, Washington Area Metropolitan Transit    Authority
            Mattie “M.P.” Carter, chair, American Public Transportation Association
            William Millar, president, American Public Transportation Association           
            Public transit riders, supporters from across the country will share stories

What:  Citizens, industry leaders and Congressional members call on Congress to pass a long-term surface transportation bill and presentation of national public transit petition.

When:  September 22, 2010
              11:00 a.m.

Where:   Outside Federal Center SW Metro Stop
                 401 3rd Street SW
                 Washington, DC 20024