In the 2025 and 2026 election cycle, affordability has emerged as a major theme for candidates and a concern amongst the U.S. electorate. Transportation is the second highest average household expense, second only to housing. Where affordable transportation choices exist, they not only save household money but also create connections to economic opportunities.

This October 20th webinar is the first in a two-part series on transportation affordability hosted by the Eno Center for transportation and will explore recent trends in transit affordability. The second in the series will be on October 29th and will address automotive affordability.

Transit options can provide riders with more affordable movement options. In recent years, many transit agencies have explored programs to enhance ridership access, especially as ridership patterns have shifted following the pandemic. At the same time, many transit agencies confront fiscal cliffs, and they must consider the balance of service improvements for riders, affordability for users, and fiscal resilience. 

Panelists:

• Art Guzzetti, Vice President (Policy, Mobility, Technical Services, and Innovation) – American Public Transportation Association  

• Danny Pearlstein, Policy and Communications Director – Riders Alliance  

Moderator:

• Grace Truslow– Policy Analyst, Eno Center for Transportation