OPINION:
July 2021 marks the 57th anniversary of federal-government support for public transportation.
The success of public transportation can be traced back to one of the late President Lyndon Johnson’s greatest accomplishments, which continues benefiting many Americans today. On July 9, 1964, Johnson signed the “Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964” into law. This measure has resulted in the investment, over time, of several hundred billion dollars into public transportation.
Millions of Americans today utilize various public-transportation alternatives. These include local and express bus, ferry, light rail, subway and commuter rail services. All these systems use less fuel and move far more people than conventional, single-occupancy vehicles. And most are funded with your tax dollars, thanks to President Johnson.
Depending upon where you live, consider the public transportation alternative. Try riding a local or express bus, commuter van, ferry, light rail, commuter rail or subway.
The ability to travel from home to workplace, school, shopping, entertainment, medical facility, library, etc., is a factor when moving to a new neighborhood. Economically successful communities are not 100% dependent on automobiles as the sole means of mobility. Seniors, students and all low- and middle-income people need these transportation alternatives.
Investment in public transportation today contributes to economic growth, employment and a stronger economy. Dollar for dollar, it is one of the best investments we can make.
LARRY PENNER
Great Neck, N.Y.
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