Public transportation supporters call on lawmakers to pass funding | fox43.com
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Supporters of Pennsylvania’s public transportation are calling on state lawmakers to provide crucial funding to transit systems across the Commonwealth.
“Every single resident, regardless of whether or not they’re riders, benefits from public transit systems that serve Pennsylvania,” said Sheila Gombita, the head chairperson of the Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association.
Governor Shapiro’s 2024-25 budget proposal calls for more sales tax revenue to be dedicated to funding Pennsylvania’s public transportation system. The legislation would increase funding by 1.75%.
State House lawmakers passed the public transit funding bill 106-95, with all Democrats and five Republicans supporting the legislation. The bill is now sitting in committee of the Republican-controlled Senate.
Transit leaders worry that riders will face increased fares and service cuts if state lawmakers don’t pass the funding measure.
“We want to make sure that we’re not cutting service to necessary medical appointments, to senior citizens who rely on our service to be independent,” said Gombita.
Pennsylvania’s public transportation system employs more than 39,000 people while generating $5.4 billion each year. Business leaders say the investment can be seen throughout central Pennsylvania.
“So, a [bus] engine made in Harrisburg is going to have an incredible multiplier effect in our regional economy,” said Ryan Unger, president and CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber. “That’s the kind of investment we want to support.”
Supporters say investing in public transit will continue to drive people to their destinations and drive job growth.
“Transportation can be a barrier for someone taking a job, and that should never be,” said Unger.
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