Introduction
Public transportation plays a significant role in answering the numerous challenges facing America today. By investing in public transportation now we can create jobs and stimulate economic growth, reduce our dependence on foreign energy, protect the environment, and provide critical response in emergencies. On an individual level, public transportation saves money, provides people with choices, freedom and opportunities and improves the quality of life for everyone. As Americans look for solutions to today’s challenges, public transportation can take us there.
American Public Transportation Association. “Public Transportation: Benefits for
the 21st Century.” Press release. 2007.
Use of public transportation instead of a single-occupancy vehicle can be one of
the largest positive contributions you can make toward reducing your carbon footprint.
In addition to the ‘green’ contribution of its public transportation service, the
MTD supports use of other alternative transportation modes and behaves as a responsible
community member. Visit the pages within our “Going Green” section of the website
to learn more about public transportation’s role in sustaining the environment,
specific measures undertaken by the MTD to be a friend of the environment, and ways
you can help to contribute to the environmental health of our region.
Read about the ways the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District is working to improve
sustainability by incorporating "green" practices throughout our organization.
What is a hybrid vehicle? This section explains "green" technologies that help buses
run more efficiently. Read about the MTD’s hybrid buses.
With the installation of bike parking, bike lockers, and bike racks on MTD buses,
it is easier than ever to ride your bike around town. Find out ways to be a safe
biker and biking advocate in your community.
People of all ages are taking to the streets to improve their health and our environment.
Learn about useful tips and suggestions to stay safe and improve the "walkability"
of your neighborhood.
Biking, walking, or taking MTD to work and need to run errands or make a doctor’s
appointment? Join the Zipcar car share program.
Each of us makes an impression on the environment in a variety of ways. Compute
the impacts of your travel, household, and regular consumption through these easy-to-use
online calculators.
What impact does public transportation have? How much of an effect can one person
have? Read through some national and local statistics to find out.