Investment in public transit creates U.S. jobs for new green economy

Although it has been a part of our lives for more than 150 years, public transportation is one of the key investments to create jobs as we address the new emerging green economy.  With previous research showing public transit’s significant contribution to reducing greenhouse gases, the American Public Transportation Association last week released a report, “Economic Impact of Public Transportation Investment,” that demonstrates how increased investment in public transportation provides good green jobs, wages and business income in industries that have been particularly hit hard by the economic downturn.   

The report found that for every $1 billion invested in public transportation capital and operations, an average of 36,000 jobs are supported. These 36,000 jobs result in roughly $3.6 billion of business sales and generate nearly $500 million in federal, state and local tax revenues.

The report also shows that short and long term economic benefits result in the effect that for every $1 invested in public transportation, $4 is generated in economic returns.  While these are national averages, the results vary depending on local conditions and returns and it can be as high as $9 in economic activity for every $1 invested.

Investment in public transit puts Americans back to work in green transportation jobs, boosts the GDP and helps the environment. By investing in public transportation, the U.S. is able to create immediate green jobs and income through the manufacturing, construction and operation of public transit vehicles.  These are the types of jobs needed as we look to green the American economy.

The bottom line is that public transportation investments offer both short and long term benefits to our economy. And if we act now — at a moment when a lot of unemployed Americans are hurting as the job market continues to retract— to include funding for public transportation in the climate change legislation and move quickly on transportation authorization, it can result in the creation and support of millions of jobs over the next six years and beyond. 

To read the full report, go to www.apta.com.