Transit numbers reflect higher gas prices

From the American Public Transit Association:

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) announced today that Americans took 10.3 billion trips on public transportation in 2007, the highest level in 50 years, representing a 2.1% increase over the previous year. 

“In light of high gas prices, increased road congestion, and expanded public transit services, this continued growth in ridership demonstrates how important public transportation is for America,” said APTA president William W. Millar.  “Now with gas prices predicted to rise to $4 a gallon, there is a greater urgency for higher federal funding to expand U.S. public transportation systems so Americans have an affordable transportation choice.

“In addition, public transportation is a key part of the solution to decreasing greenhouse gases and meeting our national goal of energy independence,” concluded Millar.  “When more people ride public transportation, there are more reductions in carbon emissions and our country is less dependent on foreign oil.”

Public transportation use is up 32% percent since 1995, a figure that is more than double the growth rate of the population (15 percent) and up substantially over the growth rate for the  vehicle miles traveled (VMT) on our nation’s highways (24%) for that same period. 

Comments

[hydra]

"Public transportation use is up 32% percent since 1995"

OK, but how much are public transportation expenditures up? Is this s good deal, considering what it costs?

“When more people ride public transportation, there are more reductions in carbon emissions and our country is less dependent on foreign oil.”

Maybe this should read "When ENOUGH people ride public transport...."

One local county run bus service reports operating costs per passenger mile of $0.85. If money is a proxy for resources, that isn't so hot.

Hydra

[James E Surratt]

I won't argue that mass transit use is up. I am a mass transit operator in Iowa City. The bus I drive is in constant use. It's like rush hour all day long! We're lucky to get a break!