Washington, D.C. (April 9, 2024) – The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) today presented retiring Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) with the APTA Congressional Legacy Award. Blumenauer is only the second Member of Congress to receive this special APTA award that recognizes advocacy on behalf of public transportation throughout an entire career.
“This award honors a Member of Congress who has had the tenacity and vision throughout their career to advance public transportation and access to mobility for all,” said APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. “It is fitting that Representative Blumenauer be honored today for his 28 years of support for the people, businesses, and organizations that make up public transportation in America today.”
Blumenauer’s political career started as a county commissioner and member of the Portland City Council, where he led efforts to fund light rail, bicycle lanes, street cars, and environmental programs. When elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1996, he became Congress’ chief spokesperson for Livable Communities – places where people are safe, healthy, and economically secure. As a member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, he advocated for creating transportation choices, providing affordable housing, growing the economy, and sustaining the environment.
“Nothing has given me greater satisfaction than our work in Congress to advance public transit in America,” Rep. Blumenauer said. “We have achieved unprecedented levels of investment and APTA’s partnership is an essential ingredient to our success. This partnership has been a highlight of my career and I look forward to working together to unlock the promise of our recent funding victories.”
“Representative Blumenauer has been instrumental in securing many legislative victories for public transit, including COVID-19 relief funding and the historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” Skoutelas said. “He has been a friend and champion for our industry and to APTA.”
For more information, visit www.apta.com.
Media contact: Amy Thompson, athompson@apta.com or 202-285-2997
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