Missouri 44th out of 50 states for transit funding; just 9 cents per capita | Columbia Missouri: Op-Ed

Headlines are quick hits from media outlets from Missouri and around the world. Follow the headline link for the full story. The source of this headline says:

The Missouri Public Transit Association believes now is the time to make the case for transit funding in Missouri. The facts show investment in transit increases access to jobs, education and health care; creates development opportunities and provides reinvestment in disadvantaged areas of the state. However, Missouri’s record for funding transit is dismal.

Missouri ranks 44th in public transportation funding among the 50 states, spending a mere 9 cents per capita to fund public transportation. That represents an 82 percent decline since 2011, when Missouri’s per-capita investment was 50 cents.

Link: 

Missouri 44th out of 50 states for transit funding; just 9 cents per capita | Columbia Missouri: Op-Ed

MoBikeFed comment: We and other bicycle, pedestrian, and trails groups across Missouri have been working together with transit organizations like CMT and MPTA to develop a joint strategy to address the transportation funding shortfall in Missouri--including the shortfall in funding for walking, bicycling, and transit.

Missouri is facing a crisis in highway funding--one far more serious than most citizens in Missouri realize.

But the facts show that the crisis in state transit and pedestrian/bicycle funding in Missouri is even worse than the highway funding crisis.

Meeting with legislators and MoDOT leaders in Jefferson City this legislative session, we have been taking this message:

Missouri's dramatic underinvestment in transit, walking, and bicycling harms the ability of communities across the state to compete in today's global marketplace

• Missouri ranks 44th of the 50 states in public transportation funding.

• Missouri spend just 9 cents per capita on public transportation funding; our bordering states average $2.85 per capita (excluding Illinois, which spends $66.30 per capita).

• Missouri provides no state transportation funding for walking or bicycling.

• People in every Missouri county depend on public transportation, walking, and bicycling for access to vital jobs, school, and medical care. This is an issue for communities large and small; urban, suburban, and rural.

• Transportation options that meet the needs of all citizens are vital for a strong economy and the public health.

• As a far outlier state in state funding for public transportation, walking, and bicycling, Missouri harms its economy and drives talent and business to more competitive states.

Transportation means a lot more than just highways. Support a comprehensive solution to state transportation funding that meets the needs of all Missourians.