SEPTA’s board has officially approved a budget that entails severe service reductions and fare increases, responding to a significant budget shortfall of $213 million. This decision comes after months of warnings regarding potential cuts. SEPTA spokesperson Andrew Busch characterized the situation as a “real doomsday scenario.”
The cuts, which represent a steep 45% reduction in service, will begin on August 24, as 20% of services are eliminated, including the cessation of 32 bus routes and all special services such as express trains following events. In September, riders will face a 21.5% increase in fares, raising the base fare to $2.90.
Furthermore, on January 1, 2024, more services will be affected, including the elimination of five Regional Rail routes and an additional 18 bus routes, along with a curtailment of operating hours with services ending by 9 p.m.
Despite the current dire outlook, there is still hope that these drastic measures might be averted if funding is secured from state lawmakers in Harrisburg. SEPTA Chairman Kenneth Lawrence emphasized that approval of the budget wasn’t a welcomed decision and expressed optimism that an agreement can still be reached. Recently, the House passed a budget bill allocating nearly $300 million for transit, although it requires Senate approval.
SEPTA General Manager Scott Sauer remarked on the evolving situation, indicating a feeling of cautious optimism compared to months prior, even as the exact resolution remains unclear.
In light of these developments, the community and local businesses are facing significant uncertainty. Advocacy groups, such as ‘Transit for All PA’, continue to lobby for increased funding to prevent these severe restrictions, highlighting the critical importance of accessible transit options for residents.
The ongoing discussion highlights not only the immediate challenges for SEPTA but also the potential for collaborative efforts to secure necessary funding, making an encouraging case for dialogue and support from local and state leaders.