Pennsylvania Budget Allocates $5.4 Million for rabbittransit
In an exciting development for Pennsylvania’s public transportation, Governor Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal includes a substantial increase of $282 million for transit. This boost is made possible by an additional 1.75 percent of the Pennsylvania Sales Tax being allocated to the Public Transportation Trust Fund. It marks the first major investment of its kind in over a decade.
A Welcome Boost for rabbittransit
One of the key beneficiaries of this budget is rabbittransit, a vital public transportation provider serving residents in various counties, including Adams, Columbia, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Snyder, Union, and York. The proposed budget includes an additional $5.4 million specifically for rabbittransit in the upcoming 2024-25 fiscal year.
Enhancing Services and Connectivity
With the allocated funding, rabbittransit plans to improve its services, primarily by enhancing the frequency of its 1W west York route. This initiative will have a substantial impact on the residents it serves, contributing to increased accessibility, job opportunities, healthcare access, and fostering a sense of connectedness within the community.
Richard Farr, the executive director of rabbittransit, emphasizes the pivotal role of public transit, stating, “Transit is the great equalizer. Providing mobility assists everyone to participate fully in society. It allows our friends and neighbors to access employment opportunities, medical needs, access to food, and allows individuals to be connected to each other. It helps keep the economy moving.”
A Promising Future for Pennsylvania Residents
To highlight the benefits of the budget proposal, a recent event took place at the Harrisburg Area Community College York campus. The gathering brought together Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Secretary Mike Carroll, college officials, rabbittransit representatives, the York County Economic Alliance, and the United Way of York. The event showcased how increased funding would enhance connectivity and opportunities for residents in south central Pennsylvania.
The impact of rabbittransit’s services is significant, as it facilitates approximately 14,000 annual trips to and from the Harrisburg Area Community College York campus alone, empowering individuals to pursue education, employment, and other opportunities.
With the Pennsylvania budget now including a substantial allocation of $5.4 million for rabbittransit, residents in the aforementioned counties can look forward to improved public transportation services, increased mobility, and a brighter future.
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