SEPTA will finalize first round of cuts next week if no new funding comes

SEPTA plans to implement service cuts and fare increases due to a $215 million budget deficit stemming from the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds. If Pennsylvania lawmakers do not approve a funding package by August 14, the transit agency will eliminate 32 bus routes starting August 24. General Manager Scott Sauer noted that SEPTA would require 10 days to restore canceled services if funding becomes available after the deadline. The fare increase set for September 1 will raise the base price from $2. 50 to $2.

90. New schedules reflecting a 20% service reduction will be rolled out across all transit modes in late August and early September. The agency has begun distributing schedules and plans to update a trip planning tool on its website to assist riders. Additionally, SEPTA leaders are encouraging riders to contact their lawmakers to advocate for funding. The urgency is heightened as the House Transportation Committee has advanced a funding package amid ongoing partisan debates.