Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Federal Funding

Congress Agrees to Keep Transit Operating Aid in War Bill

House and Senate negotiators struck a deal last night on a $106 billion war spending bill that also gives cash-strapped transit agencies the ability to use 10 percent of their economic stimulus grants to pay operating costs.

The issue of operating costs has heated up in recent weeks, with local transit officials supporting federal aid as a step towards more equitable funding consideration of all transportation modes.

Critics of the idea contend that it is disingenuous to bill stimulus money for transit operating as a short-term response to the economic recession -- or as Rep. Tom Latham (R-IA) put it last week, "there is nothing more permanent than a temporary government program."

But despite Latham's skepticism, the deal is done. The final version of the war spending bill, with the transit operating aid provision intact, is expected to become law as soon as next week.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Monday’s Headlines: Old Florida Man Shakes His Fist Edition

The so-called Leader of the Free World said he hated bike lanes. Plus other news in today's headlines.

February 10, 2025

Deep Dive: City Hall Offers Glimpse of Draft Plan To Regulate Delivery Apps

The Adams Administration revealed its plans to regulate delivery app companies. Here's how it would affect the major stakeholders — and you.

February 10, 2025

Tributes Pour in for Parking Reformer, Urbanist Mentor Donald Shoup

Shoup had a long and storied career in the academy, but he was also a mentor to generations of urban planners.

February 9, 2025

Death of a Legend: Donald Shoup, Parking Reformer

The OG of understanding how "free parking" isn't free has died.

February 8, 2025

Report: Efforts to Speed Up Bus Speeds Have Stalled … Like Bus Speeds

City buses move slower than ever after Mayor Adams reneged on his commitment to build more bus lanes, according to a new analysis.

February 7, 2025
See all posts