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While Congress continues to debate a six-year transportation reauthorization bill, American Public Transportation Association (APTA) officials are hoping poll results released today will help convince congressional leaders to invest substantial dollars in public transportation.

Results showed that 92 percent of Americans believe Congress should pass a bill to ease traffic congestion, create new jobs, expand public transportation services and repair roads; 80 percent believe increased investment in public transportation will strengthen the economy, and reduce traffic congestion, air pollution and energy consumption; and 76 percent support increased public funding to expand and improve public transportation services.

Conducted for APTA by Wirthlin Worldwide, the poll surveyed 1,000 adults between Feb. 20 and 23. Results were consistent throughout urban, suburban and rural areas, according to a prepared statement.

"Americans clearly are concerned about jobs and the economy, and see investment in public transportation infrastructure as a positive means to address these concerns," said Dee Allsop, chief executive officer of Wirthlin Worldwide.

The poll also found that 70 percent of Americans are more likely to support a congressional candidate who supports improving public transportation; 62 percent believe their community needs more public transportation options; and
52 percent believe investing in the country’s transportation infrastructure is an effective way to stimulate the economy.