Rural Transit Faces Cuts Under Proposed BUILD America Act

Federal transit funding faces potential cuts under the proposed BUILD America 250 Act, a reauthorization of surface transportation programs established by the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act signed in 2021. Transportation advocates warn that this legislation, currently being negotiated by lawmakers, represents a significant step backward for public mobility, particularly in rural areas. The proposed bill would authorize $16.5 billion less for public transit over five years compared to its predecessor, allocating $103.3 billion instead of the $119.9 billion baseline established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. According to the American Public Transportation Association, when adjusted for inflation, the BUILD Act would require an additional $24 billion to match the previous funding level, as noted by the Urban Institute. This reduction in federal investment is expected to have a substantial impact on public transit systems nationwide, with every state projected to receive at least $10 million less in formula funding over the five-year period. Yonah Freemark, a researcher at the Urban Institute, highlighted that the decline in funding would be particularly acute for projects requiring capital investment, such as the development of new transit lines. He emphasized that the effects would extend far beyond major urban centers, challenging the common perception of public transit as solely an urban amenity like New York City's subways. For individuals in rural America who rely on limited public transit options, these cuts could severely diminish their access to essential services and opportunities. Jeremy Maxand, executive director of the Living Independent Network Corp in southern Idaho, described his organization's current transit service as a "bare-minimum lifeline service" and "piecemeal," funded by an annual $100,000 state appropriation derived from federal funds. This funding supports rider payment cards but represents a minimal service for those who do not drive. The potential reduction in federal transit appropriations threatens to further erode these already limited services, exacerbating transportation challenges for vulnerable populations in non-urbanized areas. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed by President Joe Biden in 2021, aimed to broaden mobility options, but advocates argue it did not sufficiently expand access beyond personal vehicles. The BUILD America 250 Act, as currently proposed, appears to move away from expanding these options, with a particular focus on reducing transit allocations. This shift in federal policy could lead to a significant decline in the availability and reliability of public transportation, making it harder for residents in rural communities to access jobs, healthcare, and social activities.