Overview
SEPTA has proposed major transit service cuts and fare increases starting August 2025, citing a persistent budget crisis. Regional advocacy groups are mobilizing public action to demand dedicated, increased state funding to avert these drastic changes.
SEPTA Proposed Cuts and Consequences
- SEPTA plans to cut up to 45% of fixed-route services and raise fares by 21.5% beginning August 2025.
- Bus, rail, metro, and trolley service reductions will impact all riders across the Philadelphia metro and outlying regions.
- All Metro and Regional Rail service after 9 PM will be eliminated, affecting citywide access and event attendance.
- 56 bus lines will be eliminated; 63 bus lines will see major service reductions; 16 bus lines shortened.
- Five major Regional Rail lines will be cut; 12 metro/trolley lines and seven rail lines will experience major reductions.
- Paratransit (SEPTA ACCESS) will lose 40,000 annual trips, with a 35% fare hike for disabled riders.
- Estimated impacts: $19 billion loss in household property values, 76,700 jobs lost, $6.0 billion in earnings lost, and $11.4 billion less in tax revenue.
- Increased road congestion, air pollution, and climate impacts are expected as more people must drive.
- Special services for sporting or cultural events will be eliminated.
Advocacy and Public Response
- Transit For All PA! coalition is organizing to push for new, dedicated state funding to support public transit statewide.
- Tools are provided for constituents to email, visit, or call their elected officials, and to join advocacy committees.
- Flyers and materials are available for public awareness campaigns.
- Advocacy encourages public comments and participation in upcoming SEPTA budget hearings.
Opportunities for Public Engagement
- Public comments on the proposed budget cuts are open through May 28.
- Six public hearings will be held at 1234 Market St on May 19, 20, and 21, with details and registration links provided.
- Additional resources and call-to-action flyers are available for community members to spread awareness.
Action Items
- May 28 – All Advocates: Submit public comments on SEPTA's proposed budget.
- May 19–21 – Community Members: Attend and participate in public budget hearings at 1234 Market St.
- TBD – Constituents: Use provided advocacy tools to contact state legislators and the Governor to urge increased transit funding.
- TBD – Advocates: Organize or distribute flyers about potential service cuts in local neighborhoods.