Funding Urban Mass Transit in the United States

Abstract

As urbanized areas have grown across the United States, roads have quickly developed with them. Yet many cities have developed this infrastructure at the cost of failing to adequately fund urban mass transit, in spite of the important services it provides for the poor, commuters, and the environment. Consequently, many urban mass transit systems have struggled with deficits, increased fares, and reduced service. This study examines six major systems in the United States and analyzes data from these systems to provide policy recommendations regarding urban mass transit funding.

Keywords: mass transit, transit, transit funding, transportation, urban transportation, transportation funding, MBTA, MTA, SEPTA, CTA, MARTA, BART

JEL Classification: L91, L98, R40, R42, R48