Federal Funding for transit operations

Roughly half of all transit agency costs are for operations funding– keeping the trains, buses and ferries moving. Yet the Federal government historically provides almost no meaningful support to transit agency operations funding. But a bus is no good without a bus operator, fuel and maintenance crew. That’s why the Transbay Coalition joined the national effort to pass a bill that would provide $80 billion dollars to fund transit operations across America. H.R. 7039 – the Stronger Communities Through Better Transit Act , would be transformative if it passes. When the bill was first introduced, half of the Congressmembers representing the Bay Area signed on as co-sponsors. Transbay Coalition launched a campaign to marshal community support and get the other six Congressmembers on board. The campaign includes a letter-writing effort; building out a coalition letter with a diverse range of groups endorsing the bill including unions, justice groups, and environmentalists; and hosting educational events. Our efforts so far have helped bring on two of the Bay Area Congressmembers to co-sponsor the bill. We are continuing to advocate to get the remaining four on board this vital bill. To get involved, please email info@transbaycoalition.org