Wisconsin Transit Week

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The Governor Proclaims Transit Week

Excerpt from Governor’s proclamation. See complete proclamation on the right.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Scott Walker, Governor of the State of Wisconsin, do hereby proclaim
February 4 - 10, 2013 as
Transit Week

throughout the State of Wisconsin, and I commend this observance to all of our citizens.

Wisconsin's System

In Wisconsin, public transportation consists of a variety of services including: specialized, fixed-route and shared-ride taxis.
Wisconsin has 81 public transit systems including urban and rural bus systems and shared-ride taxi systems.
Wisconsin's transit systems provide access to public transportation for 55% of the state’s population.
48% of riders use public transit to get to work and another 23% for education according to a statewide study.

The Benefits of Public Transportation
Saves Money

According to AAA, the total cost to drive a car is about 59.6 cents per mile. Public transportation provides an affordable, and for many, necessary alternative to driving.
Households that use public transportation and live with one less car can save on average $10,000 every year.
In 2011, Americans took 10.4 billion trips on public transportation.

Helps the Environment

Each year, the use of public transportation saves 4.2 billion gallons of gasoline annually.
Public transportation reduces the nation's carbon emissions by 37 million metric tons annually - the equivalent of the electricity use of New York City; Washington, DC; Atlanta; Denver; and Los Angeles combined.
Households within close proximity to public transportation drive on average 4,400 fewer miles a year - using approximately 200 fewer gallons of gas.
Public transportation reduces pollution and helps promote cleaner air.

Provides Opportunities

Public transportation provides access to job opportunities for millions of Americans as well as a transportation option to get to work, go to school, visit friends, or go to the doctor's office.
By 2035, an estimated 20% of the population - one in five people - will be over 65. Providing mobility options is critical for older Americans.
Public transportation systems provide a vital link to millions of American's with disabilities.
The voters have supported increased funding for their local public transportation systems. On Election Day 2012, voters across the United States approved over two-thirds of proposed transit-related ballot measures.