The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee recently introduced legislation creating $10 billion in competitive grants for public transit, a bill supported by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).
Under the bill, the grants for public transit would enhance mobility for low-income riders and residents in disadvantaged communities. An additional $10 billion would be used to construct high-speed rail and $150 million would leverage innovative financing tools for high-speed rail projects.
“These critical investments in public transportation in the reconciliation bill prioritize equity, health, job creation, and climate action,” APTA said in a statement. “Investing in public transit and high-speed rail will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and public health, and help transform our nation’s transportation network for a sustainable future. We look forward to working with Congress and the Administration to advance the Build Back Better Act and meet the equity, climate, and mobility demands of our cities and communities.”
The organization also commended the Department of Housing and Urban Development and Federal Transit Administration for providing critically needed public transit access to affordable housing.
Improving transit access will address inequities in communities, the organization said, and address the housing crisis.
APTA is a nonprofit international association of 1,500 public- and private-sector organizations.