Mobility Matters In Missouri

As the Missouri Legislature returns to session, lawmakers have an opportunity to positively impact our economic growth by investing in public transportation. Missouri is set to receive billions from the federal Infrastructure Bill, but non-federal or local match funds will be required. It is essential that the state increases its investment in transit so we can take advantage of federal funds to deliver much needed mobility access in both rural and urban areas and keep the economy moving.

For FY 2023, Missouri’s General Assembly appropriated $8.7 million for transit – a sum split amongst the state’s 34 transit providers. This included $1,710,875 in State Transportation Funds and an additional $7 million from General Revenue, which raised Missouri’s per capita spending on transit from 28 cents to $1.41. While this is a win, more is needed.

According to the 2022 Missouri Transit Needs Assessment Study there are unmet transit trip needs in every corner of the state.

To help meet demand, the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission has requested a total state investment of $17,160,875 - $15.45 million from the General Revenue and $1.7 million from the State Transportation Fund. If secured, Missouri would, for the first time, align with its peer states with regards to transit funding.

Mobility matters. Missourians need to be able to get where they need to go. We encourage elected representatives to stand in support of this request. It is desperately needed.

Kimberly M. Cella

Executive Director of Citizens for Modern Transit and the Missouri Public Transit Association