Public transportation agencies across Virginia face growing challenges in maintaining
and expanding service amid rising operating costs, workforce shortages, aging
infrastructure and assets, and increasing community mobility needs. For small urban
and rural transit providers, these challenges are often amplified by staffing capacity in
addition to limited local and regional resources.
 
Legislative advocacy plays a critical role in ensuring that transit systems have a voice in
policy decisions that directly impact their ability to serve their communities.
 
This session will explore how transit leaders, board members, local elected officials, and
community stakeholders can effectively engage with state and federal legislators and
policymakers to communicate the value of public transportation and advocate for
sustainable funding and supportive public policy.
 
Using Virginia-specific examples, participants will learn how coordinated advocacy
efforts have influenced transportation policy, increased funding opportunities, and
elevated the visibility of transit as an essential public service. The session will provide
practical strategies for building relationships with legislators, crafting compelling
messages, utilizing data and storytelling, and mobilizing local stakeholders to support
transit initiatives.