METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

APTA, public transit industry kick off inaugural 'Get on Board Day'

More than 200 public transit agencies and organizations will come together to host various activities, events, and special promotions.

April 24, 2019
APTA, public transit industry kick off inaugural 'Get on Board Day'

As of April 2019, a two-person household on average saves $837 per month by taking transit and downsizing by one car.

SORTA

2 min to read


As of April 2019, a two-person household on average saves $837 per month by taking transit and downsizing by one car. SORTA

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.

Ad Loading...

"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.

More Management

Terrel Smith with Kiel Seats

Terrel Smith Launches New TransitOne Venture, Focuses on Building Relationships

The company partners with manufacturers such as Kiel Seating, Camira Fabric, and TSI Video, focusing on areas that directly impact both passenger experience and operational performance.

Read More →
A group of people stand in the Harlem-148 Street 3 Station and pose during a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

New Accessibility Upgrades Open at Harlem Subway Station

A new ADA-compliant ramp and station upgrades improve access, enhance the rider experience, and deliver millions in cost savings for the MTA.

Read More →
Erin Hockman
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

Iowa's DART Taps New CEO

Erin Hockman will officially assume the role on May 7, as current CEO Amanda Wanke departs to take a leadership position with Metro Transit in the Twin Cities.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Caltrain trains on tracks
Railby StaffMay 1, 2026

Caltrain Survey Shows Record-High Rider Approval

The survey showed that commute trips still make up the majority of ridership, with most riders boarding 2 to 3 days a week, reflecting hybrid work schedules. Two-thirds of Caltrain riders have access to a car, while 37% of Caltrain riders are considered low-income.

Read More →
A VIA bus
Busby StaffMay 1, 2026

San Antonio's VIA Launches Next Round of Bus Improvements

The changes are designed to reduce overall travel time, shorten wait times, and get customers to their destinations more quickly.

Read More →
A graphic of a map showing a "Snapshot of Systemwide Vulnerabilities (projected)."
Managementby News/Media ReleaseMay 1, 2026

MBTA Unveils First Systemwide Climate Resilience Roadmap

The plan outlines strategies to protect transit infrastructure from extreme weather, prioritize critical investments, and improve system reliability as climate risks intensify.

Read More →
Ad Loading...

People Movement: DART Names Interim Chief, Clean Energy Taps New President/CEO

In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at MCTS, Voith, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.

Read More →
A person working on a bus
ManagementMay 1, 2026

Data-Driven Maintenance: Focusing Effort Where It Matters Most

Advances in data and analytics are giving transit agencies new opportunities to refine maintenance practices, improve efficiency and make more informed decisions about asset performance.

Read More →
transit tracker connectpoint
Sponsoredby Alex RomanMay 1, 2026

Connectpoint Expands Digital Signage Strategy with LED Push

Connectpoint is enhancing its digital signage strategy by integrating LED technology into its services.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
frontrunner bus
SponsoredMay 1, 2026

ADA Compliant Transit: Easier, More Dignified Travel for Every Passenger

Today’s riders—and the communities you serve—expect more from public transit. While ADA compliance is required, leading transit agencies know that true accessibility also means delivering dignity, efficiency, and a better rider experience. This whitepaper reveals why forward thinking agencies nationwide choose the Low Floor Frontrunner as their first choice for ADA compliant vehicles—setting a new standard with passenger first design, faster boarding, improved safety, and unmatched operational performance.

Read More →