7th Annual National Dump the Pump to be Held on June 21, 2012
Author: Lori Groover Smith
Date: June 6, 2012
Take Public Transportation to Answer America's Biggest Challenges
As America's economic challenges continue, Fayette Area Coordinated Transportation (FACT) announced today that it will join with other public transportation systems nationwide to participate in the seventh annual National Dump the Pump Day on June 21. Sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), the 2012 National Dump the Pump Day is a day that encourages people to ride public transportation to save money, protect the environment, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and improve our quality of life.
"America is facing a number of significant economic challenges right now," said Lori Groover-Smith, Director of FACT as well as the Fayette County Office of Human and Community Services. "People that use public transportation are helping to answer those challenges for themselves and for their country. That's why we're asking people to join us and dump the pump on June 21."
Individuals can achieve an average annual savings of over $10,000 by taking public transportation instead of driving and by living with one less car. And for every $1 invested in public transportation infrastructure, $4 is generated in economic returns to communities. And, furthermore, public transportation would possibly assist in creating and supporting 36,000 jobs.
"Public transportation also has an important role to play in the energy and environmental debate," said Groover-Smith. "If you leave your car behind to take public transportation, you will be helping to reduce America's dependence on foreign energy and combat climate change."
Public transportation use in the United States reduces our nation's carbon emissions by 37 million metric tons annually. This is equivalent to the emissions resulting from the electricity generated for the use of 4.9 million households or every household in Washington DC, New York, Atlanta, Denver; and Los Angeles combined.
"By participating in Dump the Pump Day, we hope people who have never used FACT will decide to give us a try instead of driving their car," said Kim Renze, Operations Manager. "We'll be welcoming new riders and thanking our regular riders with FREE GIVEAWAYS on National Dump the Pump Day.
"With the economic downturn affecting everyone, now is the time to save money and ride public transportation," said Groover-Smith. "The National Dump the Pump Day on June 21 is an opportunity not only for people across the country but also people living in Fayette County an opportunity to ease the strain on their wallets and provide a more secure future for America."
