APTA Statement on the 25th Anniversary of September 11

Washington, D.C. (September 8, 2026) — American Public Transportation Association (APTA) President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas released the following statement:

“Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, APTA remembers the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives in New York, Virginia and Pennsylvania. We honor the first responders and transportation workers who helped evacuate thousands of people that day and supported the long recovery that followed.

“September 11 demonstrated the essential role public transportation plays in times of crisis and the courage of the people who keep our communities moving. In the years since, public transportation agencies have strengthened safety and security through expanded training, emergency exercises and close coordination with local law enforcement and federal partners, including the Transportation Security Administration and Department of Homeland Security.

“Agencies have also invested in communications, surveillance and threat-detection technology while engaging riders through public-awareness efforts such as ‘See Something, Say Something®.’ Continued federal investment in security grants, training and other resources remains critical to this work.

“On this solemn anniversary, APTA reaffirms its commitment to a safe, secure and resilient public transportation system for every rider and every community.”

Media contact: Amy Thompson, athompson@apta.com, 202-285-2997.

###