Bill to focus on Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Public Transportation Infrastructure
SACRAMENTO –Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) introduced AB 17 to enact the Transit Pass Program to assist with student public ridership. Public transit fares have risen considerably in many areas across the state. This bill addresses the lack of sufficient pedestrian, bicycling, and public transit opportunities in low-income and working class communities.
Recent reports suggest public transit ridership is decreasing across California, causing several public transit agencies to come dangerously close to missing the “fare box” revenue targets mandated by the federal government. Without reversing this trend, California will have a difficult time decreasing its petroleum use and achieving greenhouse gas emission reduction goals.
“California’s leadership to address climate change requires a multifaceted approach that works for all of us. AB 17 is a pragmatic solution to offer transit passes for students to fuel their education and making sure that less fuel is used to get them there. This bill would save money for students, reduce our carbon footprint, and energize urban transportation infrastructure.”
Planning continues to be a huge need for active transportation—especially in low-resourced communities. Planning funds enable the development of meaningful and transformative infrastructure proposals that make the most of our limited state dollars for active transportation, all while addressing community residents’ identified mobility and safety needs. The Transit Pass Program will provide low-cost, effective transportation options to budget conscious students, while providing local transportation agencies with statistically proven source of new riders, which should help offset the ridership losses in recent years.