Transportation Agenda

Current Campaigns

21st Century Transportation

Over reliance on automobiles for transportation is the main reason for our dependence on oil and makes up a huge portion of our global warming pollution. And a lack of alternative options for transportation has led to worsening traffic. But if we make the right decisions now, we can make a dent in these big problems. The solution is shifting funds away from wasteful highway projects and instead investing in public transportation.
MASSPIRG is working to convince Congress to take the first step and double the portion of money dedicated to public transportation in the next transportation bill. Read more.

Keep the T on Track

The MBTA’s unsustainable $8 billion debt load combined with the state’s slow sales-tax revenue has left the T in a downward spiral in which the authority cannot generate the revenue necessary to achieve a state of good repair, meaning that the MBTA cannot improve service quality, retain and attract riders, and increase revenue over time. Read more.

Eye on the T

Transit authorities like the MBTA need to have open and transparent decision-making so they can be held accountable to the public. Historically, the T has been slow to move on environmental and service improvements. While the T’s hands are often tied when it comes to their finances, the authority can do numerous things to improve fare equity, service quality, and address customer input. Read more.

Transit Expansion

Expanding public transportation is critical to improving our overall quality of life. Read more.

Overview

From the Berkshires to Cape Cod, affordable and reliable public transportation that grows with our transportation needs is key to the quality of life and economy in Massachusetts. Decreased traffic congestion and air pollution, reduced oil consumption, enhanced mobility choices and economic growth, are all benefits of mass transit.

To achieve these goals MASSPIRG conducts many tactics and works in numerous coalitions. As a member of the Massachusetts Transportation Investment Coalition, MASSPIRG works with planning organizations, businesses interests, construction companies, labor, and other advocacy groups to address the state’s $15 - $19 billion funding gap over the next twenty years. As a part of the MBTA Rider Oversight Committee, MASSPIRG provides recommendations to improve the T’s service and experience for riders. And as a group involved with the On the Move coalition, MASSPIRG works with community focused organizations on transit issues affecting the Greater Boston area.

Resources

While Massachusetts suffers from some of the worst traffic congestion, across the Commonwealth people are getting out of their cars and finding an alternative way to get around. From increased bicycle commuting to ride sharing programs, some Bay Staters are rethinking how to commute to work, run errands, or just enjoy a mode of transportation that is cheaper, healthier, and better for our environment. Check out these links to other organizations promoting alternative transportation: