We are re-introducing legislation to establish the Supplemental Public Transportation Operating Assistance Allocation for Growing Counties Grant Program, aimed at helping transit systems in growing counties expand their services to meet increasing demands now and in the future.
 
This program creates a mechanism to provide supplemental operating assistance, beyond base funding, to public transit systems in counties experiencing growth in population or employment. By addressing regional needs through enhanced funding, this initiative ensures that transit systems can scale up services to match growth.
 
Administered by PennDOT, the program would benefit communities across the Commonwealth, with an estimated 60 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties qualifying for some level of supplemental funding. This broad impact underscores the program’s importance to ensuring equitable access to public transportation.
 
Public transit is essential for Pennsylvania’s economic growth and quality of life. It connects workers to jobs, students to schools, seniors to medical care, and residents to vital services such as shopping and social opportunities. Even for those who do not regularly use public transit, its role in reducing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and fostering economic development benefits all residents.
 
I invite you to join us in co-sponsoring this vital legislation (previously SB 1292 of 2024) to support growing counties and ensure that Pennsylvania’s public transit systems can meet the needs of today and tomorrow.