On Thursday, the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and its members will celebrate the first-ever National Get on Board Day. APTA is sponsoring this national education and awareness day to emphasize the importance of public transportation to communities nationwide.

More than 200 public transit agencies and organizations will come together to host various activities, events, and special promotions across the nation to highlight the societal and economic benefits of public transportation.

"The value of public transportation is shown through the many benefits it brings to our nation and its communities both large and small," said APTA President/CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. "Increased investment is a critical component of improving the mobility options that boost the American economy."

With 34 million daily riders, public transit benefits every segment of American society. Public transportation provides a safe, sustainable, and affordable means of travel to riders and promotes economic development by increasing business sales, job creation, home values, and more. As of April 2019, a two-person household on average saves $837 per month by taking transit and downsizing by one car.

While 77% of Americans view public transportation as the backbone of a mobile lifestyle, only 50% report having access to frequent public transportation, according to new research from APTA. The study also found that public transportation systems have more than $232 billion in critical projects in need of investment that would stimulate a four-to-one return of $928 billion in economic activity over the next 20 years.

APTA encourages community members and leaders to express their support and get on board for public transit by signing its petition for a government commitment to increased investment and expansion of national public transportation

On Get on Board Day, more than 20 participating cities and transit agencies will offer free rides or pre-loaded transit fare cards to riders. Other Get on Board Day activities vary by state.