81% of Americans believe public transportation increases quality of life

About 80% of Americans believe that increased investment in public transportation strengthens the economy, creates jobs, reduces pollution and saves energy. A national poll conducted by Wirthlin Worldwide found that 72% of people support the use of public funds for the expansion and improvement of public transportation. Sixty-four percent said they would be more likely to support a candidate for Congress who is favorable to improving public transportation options. Most of those surveyed agreed that their community needs more public transportation options, even in rural areas. Fifty-six percent said the need to reduce traffic congestion and the time it takes to get to work has become more important in the past five years. The poll, commissioned by the American Public Transportation Association, contacted a random sample of 1,003 adults ages 18 and older. For more survey results, go to APTA's Website, www.apta.com.