APTA: American public supports federal investment in public transportation

More than seven in 10 Americans favor increased federal funding for the nation's transportation systems, including those that serve small communities and large urban areas, according to a new survey conducted on behalf of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).

The survey also found that support for increased federal support of public transportation systems crossed age groups and political affiliations, with some of the highest numbers of support among people in the age categories of 18 to 34 (77 percent) and 65 and older, according to an APTA press release.

In addition, 71 percent of car owners responded that they would support more federal investment in public transportation. Also, 56 percent of respondents said public transportation is an important asset in attracting and retaining employers in a community.

"No matter where you live and work — and what age you are, public transit provides vital access to jobs and everything a community has to offer," said APTA President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Melaniphy. "As Congress finalizes its work on the surface transportation bill, we must ensure we provide for both large and smaller communities through growth of the federal transit program."

The national online survey was conducted for APTA by ORC International in summer 2015.