Businesses and communities in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul region who understand our need for a high-quality transit system have been watching debates in the state legislature. But federal transit funding is just as relevant; all new lines in the region — including SWLRT — plan on using federal matches.
Based on what's already been reported and what is being discussed in Washington, DC, federal funding for public transportation is very likely to be threatened this spring during the budget process. The Trump Administration has clearly stated their intent to increase spending on the military and make sizable cuts to non-defense spending — including transportation.
There are three credible scenarios for public transportation funding cuts, which range from cuts from current FAST Act levels that would result from passing another continuing budget resolution, to cutting funding for all new transit construction, and finally to a scenario of repeating the House's failed 2012 attempt to kick transit out of the protected trust fund entirely.
Details are just now becoming available. This Administration moves quickly, and the time to participate in the debate is now. Join us March 22 for a briefing on possibilities for and threats to federal transit funding, what's at stake with the range of potential cuts, and what we can — and should — be ready to do in response.
Featured Speakers: • Adrea Turner | Director of Transportation for America • Geoff Anderson | President of Smart Growth America • Commissioner Jim McDonough | Ramsey County