Congressman Tonko & Local Candidates to Rally & Ride With CDTA

ALBANY, NY (10/26/2012)(readMedia)-- With the election less than two weeks away, local candidates will join passengers, transit workers and advocates at a press conference echoing their support for sustained funding for mass transit; and take a ride on CDTA.

The event is part of a nationwide "Mass Transit Voter Week," organized by a coalition of transit workers, riders and public transportation advocates seeking to make public transit an issue in this election and beyond.

"Many people and families in our region rely on public transportation to get to and from work, the doctor, school, shops, and other daily tasks," says Congressman Tonko. "Mass transit keeps our community moving, which is critical for businesses throughout our area. That's why I strongly support investments in safe, reliable mass transit here in the Capital Region and in communities like ours across the nation."

"Mass Transit Voter Week" is part of the Union's ongoing campaign to organize riders to vote across the country. In all, ATU estimates around 10,000 members will take part in voter turnout efforts, approaching riders at bus stops and rail stations, while off-duty.

"Congressional candidates will be riding public transit this week at events across the nation to draw attention to the role public transportation plays in driving our economy, reducing our dependence on foreign oil, easing traffic congestion, providing mobility for those who cannot drive, and much more," said ATU Local 1321 President Steve Moquin.

"Public transit riders have been ignored the last couple of years by legislators who may never have actually been on a bus. This week is part of our ongoing effort to give riders a stronger voice in Washington."

Transit ridership is higher than its been in decades, yet transit systems are still cutting service and raising fares because they don't have enough money to run their service at current levels. The ATU commends elected officials and candidates all over the US who are taking a strong public stand for better mass transit and recognize the critical role public transportation plays in communities across the country.

"Paul Tonko and his colleagues joined with us here today recognize the importance of public transit and that riders can make a real difference in this election," ATU 1321 President Moquin continued. "Tens of thousands of passengers ride CDTA each day and that is a powerful block of voters that can impact the outcome of this critical election."