FTA: $77.7 billion needed to keep transit in good repair

Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) “National State of Good Repair Assessment Study” estimates a $77.7 billion is needed to bring the nation’s rail and bus transit systems into a state of good repair after comprehensive analysis.

In addition, a yearly average of $14.4 billion would be required for system maintenance.

The 2010 study, FTA’s follow-up to the 2009 “Rail Modernization Study,” is based on data provided by 36 additional rail and bus operators in both rural and urban areas.

“Transit remains one of the safest forms of transportation, but this report shows the clear need to reinvest in our bus, subway and light-rail systems,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “As a nation, we must lead when it comes to infrastructure development and commit ourselves to rebuilding America.”

While most of the $77.7 billion backlog can be attributed to rail, more than 40% of the nation’s buses are also in poor to marginal condition. In April, Administrator Peter Rogoff announced the availability of $775 million through a competitive State of Good Repair funding program that will invest in the nation’s buses and bus facilities.

A review of transit agency project applications is now under way at the FTA and results will be announced later this year. The FTA has received approximately 400 project applications and more than $4.2 billion in requests for the $775 million.