Letter to the Editor: Every dollar matters for Missouri transit

Gov. Mike Kehoe signed the fiscal 2027 state operating and capital budget bills, after several volatile months as it relates to public transit funding.

While the final budget preserves $2.5 million from Capitol Commission funds and $1.7 million from the State Transportation Fund for operations, state support remains below prior levels – down 37% from FY2025 and 64% since the governor took office.

Earlier this year, the governor proposed eliminating $5 million in general revenue support for transit. Lawmakers later restored $2.5 million during negotiations. Sustaining the $2.5 million in a challenging revenue environment is meaningful as every dollar invested in transit matters.

Public transit providers deliver nearly 40 million rides annually across Missouri and generate an estimated $4 billion in economic activity. Yet Missouri remains among the lowest states in the nation for per-capita transit investment.

These funding cuts have consequences. Reduced state support can mean fewer transportation options for seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, workers and residents in rural and underserved communities who rely on transit to access jobs, medical appointments, groceries and other essential services.

The restored funding is a welcome step, but it is not enough. Transit is an economic driver and lifeline for thousands of Missourians. As budget discussions continue, state leaders must prioritize stable, sustainable transit funding that strengthens communities, supports economic growth and keeps Missouri moving forward.

—Kimberly Cella, CEO of Citizens for Modern Transit and executive director of the Missouri Public Transit Association