The APTA Expo opening general
session reviewed the accomplishments of the past year, including the passing of
HR 6052, and upcoming challenges and opportunities.
During the “exchanging of the
gavel” ceremony between the incoming and outgoing APTA chairs, Michael Townes
introduced new chair Dr. Beverly A. Scott.
“We have an opportunity for
advancing investment in public transit. We need to make our case and make it
happen. I cannot say enough: these are not ordinary times. Economically,
demographically, globally, this is a defining moment,” said Scott. She added
that the industry needs to be inclusive and unified on authorization
initiatives, and announced her plan to appoint a blue ribbon task force on
workforce development.
Jim Simpson, FTA administrator, also addressed the
audience, and pointed out the need for Congress to pass a new Reauthorization
package, public private partnerships, and toll and congestion pricing. He also
discussed innovative transit projects in India,
the U.K., Greece and Poland.
