🟨Transportation & Transit for All
A ranked guide to advocacy groups improving U.S. transportation systems and public transit access.
These organizations champion safe, sustainable, and equitable transportation—from buses and rail to biking and walkable communities. Their websites offer ways to take action, join coalitions, and shape infrastructure policy.
About These Advocacy Group Guides: I’ve created more than 60 issue advocacy guides to help people connect with effective organizations and take meaningful action. If you’re interested in other issues, you can explore them all here: Advocacy Groups by Issue.
Transportation for America (T4America)
A national coalition that advocates for smart transportation policies that promote sustainable, equitable, and efficient transportation systems.
American Public Transportation Association (APTA)
A leading organization representing the public transportation industry, APTA advocates for policies that improve public transit systems and accessibility.
The Bus Coalition is a national organization focused on enhancing public bus transit across the U.S. It advocates for policies that improve bus services and promote equitable access for all riders.
Advocates for bicycle-friendly policies and infrastructure, aiming to create safer and more accessible cycling environments.
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF)
The EDF promotes sustainable transportation solutions that reduce environmental impact and advocates for policies that support clean air and climate goals.
This organization advocates for developing trails and pathways that promote active transportation and recreation, converting former rail lines into public trails.
National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)
NACTO works with cities to advocate for urban transportation policies that prioritize safety, sustainability, and improved mobility for all.
Focused on promoting smart growth strategies, this organization advocates for policies that enhance transportation systems while fostering sustainable community development.
While primarily an environmental organization, it advocates for sustainable transportation policies and reducing reliance on fossil fuels—clean transportation.
An organization that advocates for walking and pedestrian-friendly policies,
Significant Transportation and Transit Issues
Infrastructure Investment and Funding: Many roads, bridges, and public transit systems are aging and need repair or replacement, posing safety risks and efficiency challenges. This includes addressing the need for increased investment in infrastructure.
Climate Change and Sustainability: Transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, creating a pressing need to transition to more sustainable modes of transportation and promote environmentally friendly options like electric vehicles, biking, and public transit.
Equity in Transportation Access: Disparities in access to reliable and affordable transportation impact low-income communities and marginalized populations. This encompasses both equitable transit access and public transportation funding.
Traffic Congestion and Urban Mobility: Increasing urbanization and reliance on personal vehicles have led to significant traffic congestion, necessitating innovative solutions to improve mobility and reduce congestion.
Transportation Safety: Advocating for policies that enhance the safety of all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.
Public Transit Expansion: Supporting initiatives to expand public transit networks to underserved areas, improving accessibility, and reducing congestion.
Active Transportation: Encouraging walking, biking, and other forms of active transportation as viable and healthy alternatives to driving.