The discussion surrounding SEPTA fare increases and service cuts has largely assumed that SEPTA is a self-enclosed entity. But SEPTA's problems can be more productively addressed if you see them within a larger system of regional transportation.
One reason SEPTA is failing is because Philadelphia all-day parking is so cheap. You can get Early Bird specials beginning at $9 a day in Center City, which is less than the $13 round-trip price of a SEPTA ticket.
If parking lots in the city were compelled to raise their daily rates to $25, for example, there would …
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The discussion surrounding SEPTA fare increases and service cuts has largely assumed that SEPTA is a self-enclosed entity. But SEPTA's problems can be more productively addressed if you see them within a larger system of regional transportation.
One reason SEPTA is failing is because Philadelphia all-day parking is so cheap. You can get Early Bird specials beginning at $9 a day in Center City, which is less than the $13 round-trip price of a SEPTA ticket.
If parking lots in the city were compelled to raise their daily rates to $25, for example, there would likely be a rebalancing of ridership that would significantly add to SEPTA's income, while also cutting down on urban congestion, traffic jams, and auto emissions.
It also makes sense to reduce the short-term parking rates, which would be good for businesses in Center City. These ideas have been around for a long time and have been brought up locally over the past ten years. It's time for Cindy Bass and the rest of City Council, along with the Mayor, to think outside the SEPTA box to solve the agency’s problems. The problem is about choice, and right now it's more rational to drive in early than to take the train.
Miles Orvell, Professor Emeritus, English & American Studies, Temple University
Chestnut Hill
