Poll: Americans want choice and equity in transportation

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A new poll from Transportation for America reveals that Americans, from cities to rural areas, are ahead of elected officials when it comes to envisioning a transportation system that meets our current and future needs.

Contrary to what the highway lobby would have us believe, a solid 20% majority of Americans (59-38%) believe that the solution to our current traffic congestion troubles is providing more transportation choices, including public transportation, bicycling and walking.  Even in rural areas, dedicating federal dollars to public transportation polls at 79%.

T4America went further, examining what positive outcomes people would like to see.  Those that polled the highest:

"Low-wage workers, seniors and the disabled will have an easier time getting where they need to go"

"Residents will have more transportation choices"

Regardless of the type of community in which people live, there is general agreement that our transportation system should serve the needs of all ages, abilities and income levels.  This equity argument, along with accountability to maintain existing facilities, also scored highest on the most compelling arguments that were tested - with bike and pedestrian facilities for health and Safe Routes to School close behind:

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