NewsItems

WisDOT has completed the final draft of Connections 2030

Application Administrator — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 05:00:00 GMT

WisDOT has completed the final draft of Connections 2030. The plan has been updated to reflect feedback received during the draft plan public comment period. WisDOT will be holding five public hearings in August for additional public comments. All meetings

Wisconsin will lose rail money

Internal Administrator — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 22:07:41 GMT

Wisconsin has lost its $810 million federal grant for the Milwaukee-to-Madison high-speed rail project, but will receive up to $2 million for upgrades to the Hiawatha service between Chicago and Milwaukee. Gov.-elect Scott Walker, who opposed the project, called the move a victory on Thursday morning but said he is “disappointed the Obama administration saw fit to send the money elsewhere.” Walker had tried to get federal officials to redirect the state’s share of the rail money to...

Web Extra: How do you promote transit to new students?

Internal Administrator — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:28:48 GMT

It’s summer orientation time for universities across the U.S. How are their transit systems reaching out to students? Transit agencies told us they are investing heavily in orientation programs by providing free rides and staff presentations to students and their parents.

Waukesha Bus System Gets Good Marks | Regional Planners Suggest Changes

Internal Administrator — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:03:08 GMT

A new assessment of Waukesha's public transit system by regional planners gives it generally favorable reviews but suggests some adjustments that could improve performance on some routes.

Valley Metro’s ‘Rideshare Week’ reduces trips, pollution

Internal Administrator — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:45:23 GMT

The event, held from Feb. 26 to March 3, saved 213,139 miles from being traveled and more than four tons of pollution from being emitted into the air. Twenty-nine employers competed in the Try 1 in 5 Rideshare Week Employer Challenge as a way to rally the highest percentage of participation among organizations.

Unique Metro Route and Four New Hybrid Mini-Buses Unveiled in Cincinnati

Internal Administrator — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 22:04:31 GMT

Cincinnati Ballet dancers, impersonators, and a penguin from the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden provided entertainment as Metro unveiled its new Rt. 1 - The One for Fun Presented by Hollywood Casino and its first hybrid mini-buses on Dec. 3 at the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

UMA Expo taps young operators for new ideas

Internal Administrator — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:34:07 GMT

One of the most popular sessions this year was "Young Guns," which featured five, under-35 gentlemen working in the industry discussing some of the obstacles they face and how they plan to lead the motorcoach industry into the future.

U.S. DOT kicks off ‘Build Week’ with bus facility tour

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:04:01 GMT

Raleigh, N.C. is one of the first stops on the Obama Administration’s “Build Week,” a week-long tour by the Administration officials to showcase projects that are already making a big difference in the economy by spurring private sector investment and creating jobs in the communities where they are being built.

Toronto Transit debuts real-time arrival information

Internal Administrator — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:29:31 GMT

Allows transit customers to receive information on when the next buses — up to six succeeding — will arrive at any specific bus stop. Next-vehicle information is available for more than 9,300 TTC bus stops inside Toronto.

Study: Midwest HSR could bring $300B in new business

Internal Administrator — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 22:01:54 GMT

Data projects that a high-speed rail system serving areas within 350 to 450 miles of Chicago could bring in $2.2 billion annually in user-generated revenues, and 104,000 new jobs.

Study: Americans Take More Than 10 Billion Trips on Public Transportation for the First Time in Almost Fifty Years

Application Administrator — Thu, 31 May 2007 05:00:00 GMT

March 12, 2007 Virginia Miller 202 496 4816vmiller@apta.com Mantill Williams 202 496 4869mwilliams@apta.com ( Download In Adobe PDF format ) WASHINGTON, DC If you thought you were seeing more riders during your daily public transit trips, it’s not your imagination. The American

Study recommends improvements to increase ridership

Internal Administrator — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:46:37 GMT

Results suggest that more direct transit connections to dispersed employment centers, and easier transfers to access these destinations, will help increase transit use for both transit-dependent and choice riders.

Sticking to the Essentials

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:24:08 GMT

With a little luck and a lot of hard work, Nashville was able to open its Music City Star commuter rail line at a great price.

Statement on Positive Train Control By William Millar, President, American Public Transportation Association (APTA)

Internal Administrator — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 22:22:03 GMT

Release Date: March 18, 2011

State speeds train spending

Internal Administrator — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:05:51 GMT

The state is steaming ahead with establishing a federal high-speed rail line, projecting it will commit $300 million this year - far more than the roughly $50 million in spending previously announced.

Southern Calif. transit rolls out hydrogen-powered bus

Internal Administrator — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:37:16 GMT

Sunline Transit Agency’s new zero-emission American Fuel Cell Bus is FTA has invested more than $75 million in the project through the National Fuel Cell Bus Program.

SEPTA to move to open fare payment

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:06:10 GMT

Riders will soon be able to pay for travel on trains, buses and trolleys using bank cards, mobile devices, and other emerging “smart” technologies. The board authorized a loan commitment agreement that will provide up to $175M in funding for the project and related improvements.

SEPTA sells retired bus to first responders for $1

Internal Administrator — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:35:38 GMT

Haverford Township’s Department of Emergency Services will use the bus to help cool and monitor firefighters’ vital signs to prevent exhaustion and heart problems.

Senate votes to extend Highway Trust Fund

Internal Administrator — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:04:29 GMT

Kentucky Sen. Jim Bunning's decision to block the legislation last week forced the DOT to furlough nearly 2,000 employees without pay Monday.

Seattle lawmakers propose $30 congestion fee

Internal Administrator — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:34:49 GMT

A state representative has gotten 30 co-sponsors for a bill that would allow transit agencies to impose a "congestion reduction charge" per year on car-tabs in three area counties. If approved, the bill could bring in an estimated $38 million a year for King County Metro.

San Diego area transit lowers fares, extends service

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:29:50 GMT

Implementing cheaper fares for Coaster trains and Breeze buses and extending Sprinter light rail service hours with late-night trains on weekends. Agency is trying to boost ridership by 5 percent over a span of 18 months.

Routing Culture

Internal Administrator — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:39:51 GMT

Mapping the culture of transit systems.

Roads Don't Pay for Themselves, Study Says

Internal Administrator — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 16:17:17 GMT

"Highways do not -- and, except for brief periods in our nation's history -- never have paid for themselves through taxes that highway advocates label 'user fees,'" said the 39-page report released by Florida PIRG Education Fund, a nonprofit public interest group.

Riverside, Calif. adds solar power to bus stops

Internal Administrator — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 20:43:01 GMT

As part of the campaign, posts at selected bus stops are crowned with a solar panel that charges a battery that powers the light-emitting diode, or LED, fixtures.

Report: Traffic problems rising as economy rebounds

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:29:07 GMT

Key findings include a continued rise in congestion and commuter costs, and that public transportation saved travelers 785 million hours of delay, 640 million more gallons of fuel and $19 billion in congestion costs. APTA and T4 America leaders respond.

Report: More transportation upgrades needed for economic recovery

Internal Administrator — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 17:15:09 GMT

The economic recession has only provided a temporary respite from the growing congestion problem, according to a new study. When the economic growth returns, the average commuter is estimated to see an additional three hours of delay by 2015 and 7 hours by 2020.

Report: Link between transportation funding and job creation

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:06:52 GMT

The states that created the most jobs invested in public transportation projects and projects that maintained and repaired existing roads and bridges. The states that ranked poorly predominantly spent their funds building new roads and bridges.

Report: Intercity bus use continues surge

Internal Administrator — Sun, 19 Dec 2010 19:22:01 GMT

For the third year in a row, the intercity bus service was the fastest growing mode of intercity transportation, outpacing air and rail transportation, the study reports. Intercity bus operations expanded by 6 percent in 2010.

Report: Honolulu named top commuter transit city

Internal Administrator — Fri, 13 May 2011 15:45:18 GMT

The Brookings Institution’s report reviewed commuter transit in 100 cities across the U.S. and found that nearly 70 percent of working people live in neighborhoods that offer transit service.

Report: Biking increases use, efficiency of transit

Internal Administrator — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 22:02:38 GMT

The report focused on five communities — Boulder/Denver, Colo.; Chicago; Ithaca, N.Y.; Portland, Ore.; and Santa Clara County, Calif. The results from seven focus groups within those communities also were included.

Reducing Risk

Internal Administrator — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 20:46:37 GMT

A program to curb distracted driving is having a positive impact.

Recent study links reduction in traffic to economy

Application Administrator — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 05:00:00 GMT

From the Texas Transportation Institute Web site "The most current information on the nation's traffic picture is outlined in the 2009 Urban Mobility Report, published recently by the Texas Transportation Institute. This year's installment tracks a quarter century of traffic

Rail Modernization: It's Not Your Father's Rail Vehicle(2)

Internal Administrator — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 16:36:26 GMT

How is the rail industry modernizing and what that means to your agency.

Rail Modernization: It's Not Your Father's Rail Vehicle

Internal Administrator — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:02:50 GMT

How is the rail industry modernizing and what that means to your agency.

Pueblo Receives $300,000 for Another Trolley Bus

Internal Administrator — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:23:08 GMT

Pueblo received $300,000 for a trolley bus, and the Upper Arkansas Council of Governments $175,000 for a vehicle and facility improvements in a round of transit grants announced Wednesday. The funds will be available in 2012.

Public Transportation Relieves Traffic Congestion

Application Administrator — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 21:05:10 GMT

TTI Report Says Without Public Transit, Travelers Would Have Suffered an additional 785 Million Hours of Delay on our Nation’s Roads

Public transit riders to see hefty tax boost this year

Internal Administrator — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:47:20 GMT

Congressional inaction on extending commuter benefits leads public transit riders to see taxes increase more than $550 in 2012. APTA is urging riders to push Congress to support commuter transit benefit as they resume negotiations to finalize the middle class payroll tax cut before it expires at the end of February.

President's budget proposal includes $74B for U.S. DOT

Internal Administrator — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:21:06 GMT

The centerpiece of the President's FY 2013 budget for the department is a six-year $476 billion surface transportation reauthorization proposal that will improve America's highways and transit networks, continue to ensure that these systems are safe, and give travelers new options by enhancing and expanding passenger rail service.

President's budget includes $1.82B for 27 projects

Internal Administrator — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:02:10 GMT

The spending plan included in President Obama's Budget submitted to Congress announces recommendations to invest $834.6 million in 19 new transit construction projects— 10 of which are new funding recommendations in FY 2011, and 9 of which have been recommended for funding in previous years, but still await construction grant agreements.

Port TIF plan paves way for replacing road with walkway

Internal Administrator — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:02:23 GMT

Tax district would finance unique downtown project, spark development efforts

Port Washington officials on Tuesday gave the green light to creating a downtown financing district that would pave the way for a number of city projects, including a unique plan to turn a downtown street into a pedestrian way lined with greenery.

The tax incremental financing district is designed to finance revitalization efforts and innovative projects such as a conversion of Harborview Lane.

That project, which was proposed last fall and endorsed by the Board of Public Works and the Port Washington Main Street Program, calls for closing the seldom used, two-block street between the foot of the Light Station steps and the north slip marina.

In its place, the city would create a 37-foot-wide green belt bisected by a pedestrian and bike trail that connects the downtown, lakefront and the Light Station.

The intersections on Harborview Lane, however, would be untouched, allowing traffic on Jackson, Pier and Washington streets to cross the walk.

The plan, which is expected to cost between $30,000 and $40,000 and could be done this summer, is seen by city officials as a way to meet the need for more green space in the central shopping district and to lead tourists and residents between the historic Light Station, the marina and downtown.

Port council votes to end shared-ride taxi service

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:15:37 GMT

Aldermen intrigued by saving $50,000 argue that county offers similar service

The Port Washington Common Council on Tuesday voted to eliminate the city-run TransPort shared-ride taxi service next year.

“It’s come to a point now where it makes sense to stop the city program and go with the county,” Ald. Dave Larson said.

City residents will be able to use Ozaukee County’s shared-ride taxi for their transportation needs, something aldermen said will provide service equal to or better than the current program.

“I want to assure people in my district they should be comfortable with this transit,” Ald. Burt Babcock said, noting many of them use the TransPort taxi. “I think people in the city will be very happy.”

Babcock said the county’s taxi service operates 88.5 hours a week, compared to 71.5 hours for the city program.

“In essence, the county will end up with more hours of service a week than the city,” he said, adding the only days when the county offers fewer hours is on weekends.

“I will be talking to the county to see if there is any way to expand it to have the exact same hours on weekends,” he said.

Ald. Dan Becker, who is also a county supervisor, said he believes people will be satisfied with the county taxi.

“The county has run a fantastic service for years,” he said. “They will just do a great job for the city.”

Unlike previous years when the taxi service was threatened — last year, it survived by the smallest of margins when the council voted 3-2 to retain the service — no one spoke in favor of retaining the program Tuesday night, and aldermen unanimously approved a motion to end the service. Ald. Jim Vollmar was absent.

Ald. Paul Neumyer said he has seen both the city and county taxis work, and they seem comparable.

“The advantage (with the county program) is we can get people outside the city’s borders,” he said, adding the response times are similar.

Aldermen for years have debated whether to continue the city program, saying residents are in effect taxed double for the service since they are paying for both the county and city taxis.

Port Washington is the only community in Ozaukee County to offer its own taxi service.

According to Babcock, the county service offers 75,000 rides a year and the city’s program provides 18,000 rides annually.

In August, the TransPort taxi provided 1,663 rides — roughly 1,425 to the elderly and people with disabilities — and in September that number climbed to more than 1,700, said Joyce Buchholz, who manages the program for Specialized Transportation Services.

“It’s used very, very much,” Buchholz said, noting the service had been averaging 1,500 rides a month. “We’ve noticed an increase in rides. We are so busy sometimes, it’s really hard to keep up with it.”

The TransPort program operates two taxis in the city each day and employs seven people.

The vast majority of riders use the service to get to the doctor or do shopping, Buchholz said, with other popular destinations being the hairdresser, restaurants, movies and church.

The service works to accommodate people who change their mind about their destination on the spur of the moment, she added, as well as people who are taking pets to the vet.

“It would be a shame if they ended it,” Buchholz said Tuesday afternoon, hours before the decision was made. “These people are so used to everything. They’re used to calling when they need a ride. We’ve never turned anyone away. We just squeeze them in.

“It’ll be an adjustment for people, especially the elderly.”

That’s because the county’s service seeks to have people make reservations for rides 24 hours in advance, said Transit Supt. Jason Wittek.

“That doesn’t mean we can’t make same-day appointments,” he said. “We do our best to fit people in.”

It generally works, Wittek said, because people do call to cancel their reservations, freeing time to serve those who call at the last minute. If the county can’t accommodate the requested time, it will suggest another time.

The county taxi has GPS units and a computerized system that selects the best route for pickups, even for the last-minute calls, he added.

In addition to the preference for advance ride reservations, Wittek said the biggest adjustment for Port residents is likely to be the fact that the county asks riders to allow 30 minutes before or after a scheduled pickup for the taxi to arrive.

For example, if a resident asks for a 9 a.m. pickup, the taxi could arrive between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m., he said.

“I think it’s going to mainly be an education thing, getting people used to the program and calling for the first time,” Wittek said.

The county program has received few complaints, he noted.

The county has 22 taxis, 13 of them equipped to handle wheelchairs — that number will increase by one when the city program ends because Port will turn its new van over to the county — and offers rides to the county line and to Newburg, where riders can transfer to the Washington County transit program, Wittek said.

It will cost the county $212,000 to absorb the city taxi service, Wittek said. The vast majority of the cost will be paid through state and federal grants and fares, with only about $53,000 being paid through the tax levy.

It costs the city about $272,000 annually to run the TransPort service, City Administrator Mark Grams said, with about $177,000 coming from state and federal grants and $50,000 from fares. Only about $40,000 was on this year’s tax levy.

When the city service began about 1994, state and federal grants paid for all but a few thousand dollars, officials said.

The city’s taxi service charges a per-ride fee of $3.75 for adults and $3 for seniors, students and people with disabilities, with a $1.50 surcharge to go to spots within two miles of the border — Buchholz said the primary destinations are Walmart and the Marcus movie theater in Saukville.

Ozaukee County’s program divides the county into zones when determining fees. For transportation within one zone — the equivalent of traveling in the TransPort taxi area — the fee is $2.75 for adults, $2.50 for students and $2.25 for seniors and people with disabilities.

Those fees are scheduled to increase by 25 cents next year, Wittek said.

Personal Rapid Transit in Newport News?

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:21:13 GMT

Imagine pressing a button to call a pod-sized vehicle to a transit station where you are waiting.

Operation Lifesaver launches Chicago safety campaign

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:30:32 GMT

The television safety campaign, targeting 18 to 34 year olds and Hispanic viewers, is aimed at preventing vehicle-train tragedies in the Chicago area, where crossing incidents increased in 2010.

Ohio’s Dayton RTA offers low-income job seekers fare discount

Internal Administrator — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:00:37 GMT

Reaching out to social service agencies with financially disadvantaged clients who need jobs, the transit system will make bus tokens available at a significant discount through its new Transit Access Fund. The fund is partially supported by federal Job Access Reverse Commute money.

Obama urges Congress to extend surface transportation bill

Internal Administrator — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 17:59:42 GMT

President also directed the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Interior, Transportation and Housing and Urban Development to each select three "high-priority" construction projects already funded that can be completed within 18 months.

Obama proposes spending $53B on high-speed rail

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:04:44 GMT

Investment is part of an initiative to use infrastructure spending to jump-start job creation and increase America's competitiveness.

No Fare Zone

Internal Administrator — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:40:33 GMT

Providing some free service can provide multiple benefits.

Nationwide Odyssey Events Promote Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Internal Administrator — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 17:18:10 GMT

More than 50 million people throughout the United States learned about alternative fuel vehicles and other green technologies as part of the fifth biennial National Alternative Fuels Vehicle (AFV) Day Odyssey on October 15.

N.Y. MTA reopens station damaged on 9/11

Internal Administrator — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 11:59:54 GMT

The collapse of the Twin Towers caused significant damage to the Cortlandt Street R station as well as the Cortlandt Street station on the 1 line, which remains out of service. The $20 million project to reopen the southbound platform was funded by the Port Authority and the MTA.

N.J. Transit expands contactless ticketing system

Internal Administrator — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 17:14:25 GMT

Riders can now simply wave or tap their credit or debit cards on twice as many bus routes, including buses traveling to different zones in the system.

Milwaukee to create transit authority

Internal Administrator — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:04:28 GMT

New legislation would add regional transit authorities. However, a revised bill submitted by democrats would establish a new Milwaukee County transit authority, funded by a 0.5% sales tax that could take over the Milwaukee County Transit System.

Megabus offering 200,000 free seats

Internal Administrator — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:51:29 GMT

Available for travel from Jan. 4 to March 1, 2012, to and from megabus.com’s U.S. cities and Toronto.

Megabus forecasts 70% increase in holiday bus travel

Internal Administrator — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:38:42 GMT

Company expects ridership to be up 54 percent in the Northeast and 85 percent in the Midwest.

Megabus expands service to Omaha

Internal Administrator — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 19:47:45 GMT

To celebrate this service expansion, megabus.com is offering 1,000 free seats on the Chicago-Omaha route for travel Aug. 17 through Sept. 17. The free seats will be available on the site to and from Omaha.

LSU system finds a better way

Internal Administrator — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 18:41:42 GMT

With a fleet of 23 buses, the LSU Tiger Trails Transit System provides a safe, convenient and free bus service for LSU students, faculty, staff and visitors, both on and off campus, serving approximately one million, annually.

London launches U.K.'s first hydrogen tour bus

Internal Administrator — Sun, 19 Dec 2010 19:21:18 GMT

The bus has been called a “stepping stone” to rolling out the clean technology across the country. The first bus is running on a tourist route.

Light rail guiding U.S. city development

Internal Administrator — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 16:20:09 GMT

Looking to reshape their future, many cities, including Dallas, Seattle and Washington, D.C. are planning light rail projects.

L.A. Metro retires last diesel bus

Internal Administrator — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:48:11 GMT

Metro now has 2,221 buses powered by compressed natural gas, as well as one electric bus and six gasoline-electric hybrids.

L.A. Metro adopts green construction policy

Internal Administrator — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 19:47:01 GMT

One of the first transit agencies in the country to institute a comprehensive policy aimed at reducing harmful emissions from construction equipment used in the course of the agency's transportation projects.

L.A. may invest in streetcar system

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:01:53 GMT

A plan for the four-mile circular system, backed by the Chamber of Commerce and downtown City Council Members Jose Huizar and Jan Perry, would tax local property owners to pay for about half of the cost.

Initiative encourages women to pursue transportation careers

Internal Administrator — Mon, 24 May 2010 14:22:29 GMT

Will support the advancement of science, technology, engineering and mathematics through a strategic partnership between the U.S. DOT and the Women’s Transportation Seminar International.

Illinois bus system creates safe haven for community

Internal Administrator — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:38:00 GMT

With the cooperation of local emergency response agencies and police departments, River Valley Metro has set up a program to help individuals in all types of situations, whether it is a child that is being bullied, frightened, mentally or physically abused or just locked out of their home.

IBM venture to help commuters avoid congestion using predictive data

Internal Administrator — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:39:50 GMT

Partnership with Caltrans and UC Berkeley will analyze real-time traffic patterns and individual commuter travel history to forecast faster and safer routes.

I-94 repaving project will slow traffic between Waukesha, Milwaukee

Internal Administrator — Sun, 19 Dec 2010 19:18:10 GMT

Travel times on the busy section of I-94 between Waukesha and downtown Milwaukee will more than double during a repaving project scheduled to last about three months, from early April to the end of June.

House passes transportation extension, bill advancing pipeline

Internal Administrator — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 21:41:59 GMT

The Senate rejected an effort to include the project in its two-year $109-billion transportation bill, while Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH) found it difficult to garner support for his original five-year $260 billion package that called for the advancement of the Keystone XL pipeline.

Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Safety

Internal Administrator — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:24:39 GMT

Making railroads safer means stopping people from crossing the tracks.

High Speed

Internal Administrator — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 17:20:59 GMT

A Down Payment on a New Direction in American Transportation

Heavier Riders May Change Bus Rules

Internal Administrator — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:03:52 GMT

So many Americans are overweight that the Federal Transit Authority is proposing to rewrite bus-safety rules because of it.

Groundbreaking New Analysis: Public Transportation Saves $6,200 Per Household, 1.4 Billion Gallons of Gasoline

Application Administrator — Thu, 31 May 2007 05:00:00 GMT

January 9, 2007 Virginia Miller 202 496 4816vmiller@apta.com Mantill Williams 202 496 4869mwilliams@apta.com (Download In Adobe PDF format) WASHINGTON, DC Today, the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) released a groundbreaking new study finding that public transportation use saves 1.4 billion

Gray Line Tennessee launches trolley service

Internal Administrator — Fri, 13 May 2011 15:46:01 GMT

Music City Trolley Hop is the first of three new offerings the company is rolling out this season.

Google Maps for Android gets new public transit options

Internal Administrator — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:43:57 GMT

In addition to added bus and subway options, users will also be able to select from various route options, such as the recommended route, one with fewer transfers, or one that involves less walking.

Global High Speed

Internal Administrator — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 20:45:38 GMT

High-Speed rail will soon make its mark in the United States, but its already turning heads across the globe.

FTA stresses equal access on Rosa Parks anniversary

Internal Administrator — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 17:26:51 GMT

Among the administration's responsibilities is overseeing the implementation of civil rights laws and regulations in the nation's transit agencies. These laws include Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.

Florida begins work on commuter rail project

Internal Administrator — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:33:36 GMT

SunRail will run along a 61-mile stretch of existing rail freight tracks in Central Florida. The major funding partners for the project are the Florida Department of Transportation, the FTA, Orange, Seminole, Volusia and Osceola counties and the city of Orlando. The first phase, at 31-miles, will serve 12 stations.

First Transit partners with Green Bay Packers

Internal Administrator — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 14:59:37 GMT

Buses will pick up and drop off fans from designated stops named QB Sneak, Cheesehead, Lambeau Leap and Quick Slant.

Fare Free Got CVTD Running

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:23:25 GMT

Cache Valley Transit District started as fare free and has been growing ever since while remaining free.

Experts predict dire outcome from transportation funding proposal

Internal Administrator — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:21:49 GMT

APTA President/CEO Michael Melaniphy, Gary Thomas, president/CEO of Dallas Area Rapid Transit, Patrick Scully, COO of Daimler Buses, North America and others discussed the negative financial impacts the proposal would have on America’s public transportation systems.

Eurostar: American ridership up

Internal Administrator — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:31:58 GMT

While overall Eurostar passenger numbers in 2010 rose to 9.5 million compared with 9.2 million during 2009, the rail operator reported this figure included 310,000 travelers from the USA, a 14 percent increase from 2009's 273,000.

Employees flock to auto alternatives Workplace-sponsored plans are growing

Application Administrator — Mon, 12 May 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Employees flock to auto alternatives Workplace sponsored plans are growing By JOEL DRESANGjdresang@journalsentinel.com Posted May 10, 2008 As record high gas prices make commuting more of a burden, many employers are offering their workers a lift. Northwestern Mutual, already the

Driver Helps Riders Make Connections

Application Administrator — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT

Meet Michael Nowak. We chatted with him before he started his shift, and then traveled along for part of the ride on the Number 15. The route goes south almost to Oak Creek and north to Bayshore Mall. Nowak’s been

Detroit light rail project receives $25M fed grant

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:27:42 GMT

Initial 3.4-mile, 12-station light rail line would connect downtown Detroit to Grand Boulevard in the New Center district along the region's main travel artery via Woodward Avenue.

Despite Predictions of Lower Fuel Costs, Gas Prices Remain High as Public Transit Savings Soars

Internal Administrator — Fri, 13 May 2011 15:55:00 GMT

Release Date: May 10, 2011

Daimler unveils new TopClass S 417

Internal Administrator — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:04:25 GMT

New vehicle features more than 30 improvements, including an EPA 10-compliant engine, Front Collision Guard and new driver appointments.

D.C. Metro to preserve service without fare hikes

Internal Administrator — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:46:46 GMT

The $1.4 billion operating budget for Fiscal Year 2012 maintains the current level of rail, bus and paratransit services. The agency is doing more, while becoming more resource efficient. More than 91 cents of every Metro operating dollar directly funds core services, with only 9 cents funding support functions.

Congressman: Tri-Valley's New Rapid Buses Creating Jobs and Making Convenient Public Transit a Reality

Internal Administrator — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:37:25 GMT

Congressman John Garamendi, California's former Lieutenant Governor, joined Congressman Jerry McNerney and other local officials at a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new rapid bus transit system in the Tri-Valley.

Commuter Advertising Sets the Pace with Audio Sponsorships

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 22:47:46 GMT

Chicagoland Commuters and Pace Suburban Bus to benefit from new revenue stream.

Climate Study: Public Transportation's Contribution to U.S. Greenhouse Gas Reduction

Application Administrator — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 05:00:00 GMT

September 26, 2007 Virginia Miller 202 496 4816vmiller@apta.com Mantill Williams 202 496 4869mwilliams@apta.com (Download Full Study in Adobe PDF format) Background on Transportation and CO2 Emissions U.S. greenhouse gases (GHGs) from transportation represent 33% of total U.S. GHG emissions GHG

Cleveland RTA offers info via QR Codes

Internal Administrator — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 17:58:58 GMT

The two-dimensional barcode, made of small black squares and rectangles, is arranged in a square on a white background that typically leads to text, a URL or other information. In RTA's case, QR codes lead to a specific map and/or route information.

Cleveland RTA honored for ‘HealthLine’ BRT

Internal Administrator — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:40:33 GMT

Acknowledged by the American Council of Engineering Companies with its National Recognition Award, presented in Washington, D.C.

Clean Energy to build, operate N.J. CNG station

Internal Administrator — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:47:28 GMT

The facility will support the Atlantic City Jitney Association's deployment of its new fleet of 190 clean-running, 13-passenger shuttle buses.

China's Transport System Braces for 2.85 Billion Holiday Trips

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:21:56 GMT

About 2.85 billion passenger trips by airplane, train, ferry and highway will be made during this year's cross-country Spring Festival rush, Xinhua News Agency quoted Ministry of Transport sources as saying. The figure is an 11.6-per cent year-on-year increase over 2010.

Chicago's Metra rolls out ‘quiet cars’

Internal Administrator — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:48:54 GMT

Began testing of the “quiet car” concept on Monday, on the first and last cars on the Rock Island rail line. Rules include: No cell phone calls, conversations must be in subdued voices, and electronic devices must be silenced.

Chicago Transit approves info tech. contract

Internal Administrator — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:46:03 GMT

Creates a pool of vendors, known as Technology Resource Acquisitions for Programs of Regional Transit – or CTA TRANSPORT, to provide the agency with information technology support services as needs are identified in the interest of efficiency. Services include communications infrastructure, engineering design, development, implementation and integration.

Chicago schools use 'bus tracker' for student safety

Internal Administrator — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 21:43:26 GMT

Chicago Public School officials have installed monitors equipped with Chicago Transit Authority bus tracker technology in 35 schools to help students know exactly when buses will arrive.

Chicago Mayor makes public transit mandatory for city employees

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:11:34 GMT

The use of personal vehicles will be discouraged. Detailed reimbursement forms will include beginning and ending odometer readings listing all locations visited, along with a map that shows miles traveled.

Change Happens

Internal Administrator — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 22:05:54 GMT

For Nashville MTA's Paul Ballard, change is something that happens when you make it happen.

Canadian public transit ridership up

Internal Administrator — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 20:43:45 GMT

Increase of 4.1 percent nationally over the previous year, represents an all-time record with 1.9 billion trips taken.

Canada: Rail important to economic future

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:02:36 GMT

Also highlighted was the collaborative work being done by industry, government and academic researchers through Transport Canada's Railway Research Advisory Board. The board is actively examining new approaches and seeking solutions to address transportation challenges such as infrastructure renewal, congestion, rising energy costs, environmental concerns and mobility.

Cameras step up NYC bus-only lane enforcement

Internal Administrator — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 17:27:34 GMT

The cameras snap photographs of offending vehicles' license plates, just as existing red-light cameras do; then a ticket is mailed to the owner's address.

California Gov. may not cut transit funds

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:28:24 GMT

While Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed budget, released last week, does not include cuts to transit, a spokesman for a San Francisco transportation and planning agency cautioned that a fuel tax swap approved last year may take $2.5 billion from transit.

Calif. agency offers homeless free rides

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:05:27 GMT

Officials expect about 3,500 people, or nearly half the county's estimated homeless population, to take advantage of the offer.

BRT Update

Internal Administrator — Mon, 24 May 2010 14:20:29 GMT

An Overview of Bus Rapid Transit in the United States.

Boehner, GOP rethink $260B authorization bill

Internal Administrator — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 18:42:26 GMT

Democrats on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, who felt they did not have a hand in writing the bill, applauded the news and are hopeful to be more involved in the process.

Atlanta looks to form regional transit agency

Internal Administrator — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:33:24 GMT

The city’s mayor and other local leaders are pushing the legislature to form a regional mass transit agency to act as an umbrella over the multiple systems.

APTA: Transit users save $10,230 annually

Internal Administrator — Fri, 13 May 2011 15:40:12 GMT

Since last month, gas prices rose another 14 cents, allowing transit riders to save an additional $10 this month. Gas prices have risen nearly $1 since the beginning of 2011, making annual transit saving $115 higher this month, compared to last.

APTA: Transit riders can save $9,682 annually

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:01:11 GMT

The latest “Transit Savings Report” notes that by living with one less car and riding public transportation, individuals can save, on average, $9,682 annually, and $807 per month based on the February 10, 2011 average national gas price.

APTA: Public transportation users save $9,914 annually

Internal Administrator — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 18:43:09 GMT

Savings are based on the cost of commuting by public transportation compared to the cost of owning and driving a vehicle which includes the Feb. 21, 2012 average national gas price and the national unreserved monthly parking rate.

APTA: Public transit users save money, beat higher gas prices

Internal Administrator — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:37:02 GMT

The latest “Transit Savings Report” shows that, since gas prices have risen more than 30 cents a gallon in each of the last two months and nearly 80 cents since the beginning of the year, transit riders are able to reap the largest amount of savings in nearly three years.

APTA: Public transit users save $9,956 annually

Internal Administrator — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:20 GMT

Report numbers show a substantial increase over this time last year, as gas prices have risen nearly $.86 a gallon.

APTA: Public transit users save $10,126 annually

Internal Administrator — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 21:42:43 GMT

Releases the monthly Transit Savings Report to examine how an individual in a two-person household can save money by taking public transportation and living with one less car.

APTA: Public transit users save $10,120 annually

Internal Administrator — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:44:40 GMT

The savings are based on the cost of commuting by public transportation compared to the cost of owning and driving a vehicle, which includes the March 26, 2012 average national gas price ($3.897 per gallon- reported by AAA) and the national unreserved monthly parking rate.

APTA: Public transit saves riders $9,215 annually

Internal Administrator — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:04:27 GMT

Riders can save on average $768 per month. Amount is based on the cost of the national averages for parking and driving, as well as the March 3 national average gas price of $2.703 per gallon for self-serve regular gasoline as reported by AAA.

APTA: PT users save $9,824 annually

Internal Administrator — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:10:51 GMT

The savings are based on the October 13, 2011 average national gas price and the national unreserved monthly parking rate.

APTA: PT users save $9,790 annually

Internal Administrator — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:45:53 GMT

These savings are based on the cost of commuting by public transportation compared to the Jan. 10, 2012 average national gas price and the national unreserved monthly parking rate.

APTA: Failure to extend transit commuter benefits favors drivers

Internal Administrator — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:50:45 GMT

Legislation to temporarily establish parity between parking and transit/vanpool benefits at $230 per month per commuter was extended. However, the transit/vanpool portion of the benefit will revert to $125 per month when the provision expires at the end of the year while the parking benefit increases to $240.

APTA: Americans took more than 10B trips in '09

Internal Administrator — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:08:32 GMT

Despite economic downturn, trips stay above 10 billion for fourth year in a row.

APTA leg. meeting to discuss safety, jobs

Internal Administrator — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:07:48 GMT

The 600-plus public transit leaders will spend Tuesday and Wednesday visiting their congressional representatives, lobbying their transit initiatives on Capitol Hill.

Amtrak unveils new Trans-Hudson Gateway tunnel plan

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:03:19 GMT

The new tunnels would significantly increase commuter train capacity by allowing NJ Transit to add an additional 13 trains per peak hour into New York City and it would increase the number of Amtrak trains into New York City by eight per hour.

Amtrak launches kid friendly website

Internal Administrator — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:37:46 GMT

The "Kids Depot" site is arranged as a 3D virtual world with seven different "neighborhoods" full of exclusive online-only content to explore. Friendly characters in each area introduce kids to a wealth of engaging interactive games along with activities to download and take onboard.

Amtrak hits 17th consecutive month of ridership growth

Internal Administrator — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:55:18 GMT

Comparing the first six months of FY 2011 (October to March) to the same time period in FY 2010 shows ridership is up 5.9 percent, or 802,745 passengers. In addition, during that same period ridership has increased on all three of Amtrak's major business lines: Northeast Corridor up 3.9 percent, state-supported and other short distance corridors up 7.7 percent, and long-distance trains up 5.3 percent.

American Mass Transit Ridership Up 1.6% in First Half, Report Shows

Application Administrator — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Oct. 4 (Bloomberg) U.S. public transportation ridership, which reached the highest level in almost half a century in 2006, has continued to increase this year as commuters switch to trains and buses amid rising gas prices and more congested highways.

Alternative fuel use gaining traction in transit bus sector

Internal Administrator — Fri, 13 May 2011 15:40:55 GMT

Will represent more than 50 percent of the 64,000 total transit buses that will be delivered worldwide by 2015, up from 28 percent of total bus deliveries in 2010.

AASHTO: States making strides toward high-speed rail

Internal Administrator — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:32:41 GMT

According to a new study released by the organization, 15 of the 29 states that received grants from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act are using the funds to expand and upgrade existing lines; purchase new locomotives, track, and other equipment; and modernize and build new train stations.

$79B U.S. DOT budget promotes safety, livable communities

Internal Administrator — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:02:12 GMT

The budget includes an additional $1 billion for high-speed rail, coming on the heels of President Obama and Vice President Biden's January 28 announcement of $8 billion in Recovery Act funds for states across the country to develop America's first nationwide program of high-speed intercity passenger rail service.