Federal Transit Funding Key to Rebuilding Economy

This article examines how the stimulus package will benefit transit as it boosts the economy. The author notes that the present period is an unusually difficult one for public transit in that more people wish to use transit, but transit is hampered by the credit crisis, energy prices, certain labor practices, and its inability to respond quickly to sudden market changes. The author reports on the amounts of money available for various types of transit, and explains the necessity for new money to be spent within a 120-day period. In addition, locally voters have approved some $75 million in funding for transportation investments, making 2008 one of the most successful for transit at the ballot box. The author also looks at proposals for the renewal of the federal surface transportation law, as well as suggestions by some groups to reform the federal program.