Public transit that serves rural communities is no less essential to the everyday needs of their users as those systems that serve cities. So, why do some states seem so eager to cut subsidies to rural transit providers?
"In the city, many working people and senior citizens rely on public transit to get to the office, doctor appointments, or shopping. No one questions the value of this service to the public good," writes David Holtzman. "The same needs exist in rural areas, but rural public transit is almost invisible. Yet, because most people live so far from commercial and civic centers, transit is just as critical as it is in the city for getting anywhere, if not more so."
"Despite its importance to so many people, public transit in rural areas is one of the first things to face the budgetary chopping block during tough economic times," he laments. "There is a perception among some citizens and legislators that transit is somehow a frill, and that many of the people who use it do not really need it."
"Virginia is one state that is looking at a new model in which they will no longer provide aid to transit providers based on their spending needs."
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