As a member of the Philly Transit Rider Union (TRU), I have grave concerns about potential SEPTA service cuts and fare increases. I am among thousands who rely on SEPTA buses to get to work, particularly in my neighborhood. While ridership hasn't fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, there has been gradual growth as the public returns to transit.
Reports suggest SEPTA may increase fares by nearly 30% at the start of next year. Public transportation in Philadelphia has historically been underfunded, and this issue extends beyond our city. Multiple counties, including Pittsburgh's …
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As a member of the Philly Transit Rider Union (TRU), I have grave concerns about potential SEPTA service cuts and fare increases. I am among thousands who rely on SEPTA buses to get to work, particularly in my neighborhood. While ridership hasn't fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, there has been gradual growth as the public returns to transit.
Reports suggest SEPTA may increase fares by nearly 30% at the start of next year. Public transportation in Philadelphia has historically been underfunded, and this issue extends beyond our city. Multiple counties, including Pittsburgh's Allegheny County, need additional funding. Public transit systems are also severely understaffed.
Pennsylvania's governor needs to direct more funding toward public transit across the commonwealth. Rather than prioritizing highway funding, Pennsylvania should heed the Federal Transit Administration's guidance. Without additional funding from state legislators, SEPTA may begin reducing bus service as early as June 2025.
The community united to repair I-95 after its collapse; we should show the same solidarity for public transit, as both are vital to Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh has lost service over two decades, and inadequate transit funding in both major cities has harmed riders. With upcoming major events — MLB All-Star Game, and FIFA World Cup — transit agencies must be prepared. Maintaining full transit service benefits the entire state's economy.
The Pennsylvania House has passed three measures to increase public transportation operations through a sales tax allocation (without raising taxes). Transit agencies throughout the commonwealth struggle with funding and staffing shortages. Gov. Shapiro can support public transit as Gov. Rendell did in 2005 and 2010. Public transit faces a crisis across the commonwealth and requires proper funding to maintain full service. Adequate transit funding strengthens the entire state's economy. Public transportation needs our financial support now more than ever.
Christopher Saxon
East Mt. Airy
