Browse by Category

Special governmental authorities that are responsible for managing and operating public transportation in cities and towns throughout the country, either directly or via a contract with transportation companies. Public transportation includes buses, subways, light rail, commuter rail, monorail, passenger ferry boats, trolleys, inclined railways, and people movers. In some jurisdictions, the transit authority may also manage paratransit services for older adults, people with disabilities and Medicaid recipients who need transportation to medical appointments and cannot use the bus or other alternatives; operate park-and-ride express shuttle services; provide neighborhood transportation for public schools; and operate ride sharing programs for commuters.

Nonprofit organizations whose members are private businesses, developers and local governments that have formed a partnership to reduce traffic congestion and pollution in a particular geographic area, mitigate traffic expected from new development, improve commuting options for their employees and encourage other activities that make more efficient use of transportation and parking resources. TMAs promote shared ride and the use of transit, walking, biking, work schedule changes and telecommuting, especially during the most congested time of the day. They are typically funded through dues paid by member businesses and local government grants; and may supplement their budgets by charging fees for the services they offer such as guaranteed rides home, vanpools and shuttle services.