As a daily user and advocate for sustainable alternatives to cars, I have experienced firsthand the struggles and limitations of our current public transportation system. Despite its vital importance, many public transportation projects in the United States have been stalled or abandoned due to insufficient funding. This is a reality that disappoints me greatly as I rely on these services almost daily.

The American Society of Civil Engineers gave U.S. public transit a D- grade in 2017, highlighting the urgent need for improvements and upgrades (ASCE's 2017 Infrastructure Report Card). Meanwhile, billions are poured into highway infrastructure annually - funds that could be better utilized enhancing our public transportation systems.

Gridlock is not just an inconvenience; it contributes significantly to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The Texas A&M Transportation Institute reported that traffic congestion caused U.S. drivers to waste more than 3 billion gallons of fuel in 2017 alone (Urban Mobility Report).

It's time we shift our priorities from highways towards more sustainable modes of transport like buses, trams, trains, and ferries. By doing so, we can reduce congestion on our roads while also making strides towards environmental sustainability.

Some people may oppose public transportation, but then when they finally get it, they wonder why they didn't get it sooner. It's because they are morons, that's why!

Please join me in calling upon policymakers to redirect highway infrastructure funding towards improving and expanding our nation's public transportation systems. Sign this petition today!