Transit for Connecticut
What is the problem?
Congestion in Connecticut causes over 64 million hours of delay annually in the state's three largest urban areas—Bridgeport, New Haven, and Hartford—and costs the state approximately $1.3 billion annually. Additionally, the largest single barrier to employment is lack of transportation.
Transit ridership has increased in Connecticut over the last few years with 43 million bus trips reported in 2015. The Metro-North rail line, running between New York City and New Haven, is the most used rail line in the country, and faces a growing ridership and increased demand. But state and federal investment has not kept pace with Metro-North's continued growth so delays and other problems are now a part of the daily commute.
The New Haven Line by David Wall
Economic benefits of public transportation:
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For every $1 billion invested in public transportation capital and operations, approximately 36,000 jobs are created and supported.
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For every $1 invested in public transportation, $4 is generated in economic return.
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Riding public transportation instead of driving a car can save residents on average over $9,800 annually.
Environmental benefits of public transportation:
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Riding a bus instead of driving alone for a 20-mile round trip commute can reduce 4,800 pounds of CO2 emissions per person per year.
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Taking public transportation reduces excess gasoline usage—commuters who drive to work instead of taking public transportation consume 99 extra gallons of gas per person per year while stuck in traffic
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Using transit can help reduce congestion on our roads, help reduce harmful air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and support responsible growth, thereby reducing sprawl.
CT Transit hybrid bus by Thomas Reaves
Social benefits of public transportation:
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Public transportation allows senior citizens who can't drive to stay in their homes and "age in place," as opposed to entering a nursing home, saving the State of Connecticut $3,500 to $4,000 per month per person.
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Public transit provides young adults with the ability to live and work in vibrant communities and provides all residents with mobility options needed to get to work, recreation, shopping, or medical appointments.
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Learn more about Transit-Friendly Communities.
How does CFE work to improve Connecticut's transportation infrastructure?
CFE advocates for public transportation improvements through its Transit for Connecticut coalition. The coalition is made up of 33 business, human service, regional planning, environmental, transportation, and civic organizations. Its mission is to visualize, advocate for, and see the implementation of a cost-effective comprehensive strategic investment in bus transit that will create opportunities, address unmet needs, and provide access and mobility that will benefit every community in the state.
Reports
Transit for Connecticut uses public listening sessions, press conferences, legislative advocacy, educational forums, meetings with key legislative leaders, and public outreach to increase the awareness of the benefits of bus transit and to advocate for increased investment in the state's transportation infrastructure.