Former Federal Transit Administration Administrator Marc Molinaro joins Paul Comfort for an in-depth conversation about federal transit policy, funding, and the future of public transportation.

Drawing on his experience as both a member of Congress and the leader of the FTA, Molinaro offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the agency operates, what transit agencies should understand about federal grants, and why building consensus in Washington is often more complicated than it appears.

The discussion explores the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee's recently approved surface transportation reauthorization proposal, evolving federal priorities around safety, security, accessibility, and project delivery, and the growing role of bus rapid transit in connecting urban, suburban, and rural communities.

Whether you're a transit executive, policymaker, or industry observer, this episode provides valuable insight into how federal decisions shape local transit systems across North America.

In This Episode

What the FTA actually does day-to-day
How federal transit grants are evaluated and managed
Lessons learned from leading the FTA
The future of surface transportation reauthorization
Safety, security, and accessibility priorities
Bus Rapid Transit vs. Light Rail investment trends
Why transit legislation advances through "evolution, not revolution"
What transit leaders often misunderstand about Washington

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

Former FTA Chief Marc Molinaro on the Future of Federal Transit Funding

Transit Unplugged

Former FTA Chief Marc Molinaro on the Future of Federal Transit Funding