Congressmen Lipinski, Grimm create public transportation caucus

U.S. Reps. Dan Lipinski (D-Ill.) and Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.) have formed a Congressional Public Transportation Caucus aimed at addressing U.S. public transportation systems, including rail, light rail, bus rapid transit and traditional bus service.

The bipartisan caucus will provide a forum for congressional members to discuss the challenges and needs of mass transit agencies since increasing demand and decreasing funding are putting "unprecedented pressure" on U.S. public transportation systems, the congressmen said in a joint press release.

"Maintaining and improving our public transportation systems must be a part of the solution to creating jobs at home and ensuring our competitiveness in the global marketplace," said Lipinski, who serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

A strong public transport system is crucial to the nation's economy, and must be maintained and updated to meet growing demand and ensure the highest levels of safety, said Grimm.

"Unfortunately, there is a gap between where our public transportation infrastructure needs to be and where it is today, which is why this caucus is so important," he said.