How Pennsylvania Will Benefit From Federal Transit Funding

Thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, writes Margaret J. Krauss, “Nationwide, public transit agencies will see $20 billion of investment. Numerous FTA programs saw a boost, from maintenance and repair grants to improving mobility for seniors and people with disabilities; there are also specific grants for urban and rural areas.” 

According to Krauss, Pennsylvania will receive over $617 million for public transit investments. “The Philadelphia region will see $446 million, Harrisburg will receive $14 million, Allentown is slated to see $12 million, and the Pittsburgh region will see $84 million.”

Vincent Valdes, Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission Executive Director, said “SPC will work collaboratively with our partners in the 10-county region to address the highest priority infrastructure improvements to maximize the safety and efficiency of our transportation system, including the essential network of public transit that so many rely upon to reach their everyday needs.”

“Exactly how transit agencies can spend the new money — for instance, whether it can be used for operations versus capital projects — remains to be seen, said Adam Brandolph, Port Authority spokesperson.”