Even during a pandemic that has severely reduced transit ridership and created uncertainty about household budgets, voters on November 3 recognized the value of transit and decided to ramp up public investment in their local systems.

For the ten U.S. regions with the most transit ridership, we estimate that CARES Act funds will cover agency shortfalls for an average of 5.4 to 8.3 months. For agencies in the rest of the country, CARES Act transit funds will last 12.6 to 20.8 months, on average.

The 2018 ridership numbers for American transit agencies are in.

The 2018 ridership numbers for American transit agencies are in.

When it comes to increasing transit ridership, fare policy is an underutilized strategic tool. But a few transit agencies are demonstrating how it can be used to attract (or in some cases, repel) transit riders.

In growing recognition that the benefits of transit access often don’t accrue to low-income riders, two agencies are testing strategies to encourage affordable development near transit.

Seattle, one of the fastest growing cities in America, is making bold investments to ensure the majority of its residents live within walking distance of frequent transit.

We are updating how we communicate, including on this website, to double down on our mission, advocating for better public transit in America.