Vermont Business Magazine Yesterday, Transportation for Vermonters (T4VT) delivered their “Let’s Invest in Public Transit” petition to legislators, signed by over 950 Vermonters, and hosted a press conference underscoring the importance of investing in public transportation.
Members of the public, coalition partners, and legislators spoke in support of greater investment in public transit and aligning the state’s transportation dollars with the needs of Vermonters. Service cuts are directly impacting Vermonters across the state, creating barriers to accessibility.
“We are asking our legislators to make the difficult policy decisions needed that will allow us to develop a modern transit system that provides better health outcomes, a cleaner/more resilient environment, accessible labor supply for employers, reduced social isolation, and lower transportation cost burdens,” said Kati Gallagher, T4VT Coordinator and Sustainable Communities Program Director with the Vermont Natural Resources Council.
“This focus on public transit is the most direct relationship between equity work in our state and economic improvement and environmental justice. By taking away dollars from public transit, we are discouraging the people who have an option from choosing to ride the bus. By taking away dollars from public transit, we are punishing the people who have no other choice,” said Representative Leonora Dodge.
“Without public transportation, Vermont will fail,” said Matthew Lefleur, a community advocate and resident of Alburgh, “transportation means freedom in certain ways- access needs such as doctors and work.”
Speakers highlighted the fact that making these investments will have a wide range of positive impacts on Vermont's economy, environment, and quality of life.
“We need to robustly fund public transit and work toward a sustainable revenue source for this essential system. We should be investing in a future where Vermonters can get to where they need to go in a way that does not break their budget, that helps us reach our climate goals, and helps us build community,” said Representative Chloe Tomlinson.
“It is good for housing, not only providing access to housing but allowing one car families the ability to thrive. It is good for education, both for adults and kids. It is essential for some of us who don’t drive or can’t drive, especially older adults and those who are differently abled,” said Senator Wendy Harrison. “When I talk to people who are telling me about problems in the healthcare system, transportation is their number two issue. When people talk to me about schools, transportation is their number two issue. It is always number two and people assume we can’t do something about it. We can do something about it.”
“AARP calls on our lawmakers to prioritize funding and legislation that supports public transit services for all Vermonters. We urge state leaders to commit to solutions that ensure people of all ages and abilities can fully participate in Vermont’s vibrant communities. We stand with Vermont residents in advocating for transportation systems that are accessible, reliable, and equitable,” said Kelly Stoddard Poor, Associate State Director with AARP-Vermont.
Following the press conference, T4VT delivered their petition to the transportation committees and State House leadership urging them to commit to identifying dedicated funding that stabilizes public transit in the short term and builds a robust transit system that meets the needs of all Vermonters.
Transportation for Vermonters (T4VT) is a diverse coalition of individuals, organizations, businesses and institutions advocating for a well-funded, accessible, and equitable transportation system for the good of Vermonters, our communities, and our climate.
March 19th, 2025 Montpelier, VT - Transportation for Vermonters www.t4vt.org
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