Passenger Bus, Rail and Motorcoach Industry News

Springfield Mayor Mike Houston told U.S. transportation subcommittee representatives that continued state and federal support for city rail consolidation is critical for Springfield’s economy.

President and CEO Peter Pantuso and Senior Vice President Clyde Hart attended the event as the new National Travel and Tourism Strategy was released by Secretary of Commerce John Bryson and Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar.

Finding comes from the latest annual public opinion poll on Denver RTD’s FasTracks program. Survey also found that 56 percent of metro residents have a favorable impression of FasTracks, up seven percent from 2010.

In the Tuesday general session at the APTA Expo, guest speaker Richard Florida, founder of Creative Class Group and author, says ‘post-crash prosperity’ is possible, but only through investing in a public transportation system that fits a new generation America.

The economic recession has only provided a temporary respite from the growing congestion problem, according to a new study. When the economic growth returns, the average commuter is estimated to see an additional three hours of delay by 2015 and 7 hours by 2020.

56 percent say they lost business from their public transportation clients and 52 percent of businesses say they expect to layoff employees or cut back hiring as a result.

Transit systems in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston do poorest job of reaching no-car households.

Despite high gas prices and a slow economy Americans who ride public transportation save, on average, $9,968 annually and $831 per month, based on the July 14, 2011 average national gas price of $3.66 per gallon.

15 of the 29 states that received ARRA grants are using the funds to expand and upgrade existing lines; purchase new locomotives, track, and other equipment; and modernize and build new train stations.

Will implement service reductions next month as a result of lower than anticipated revenues due to the sluggish economy.