Anindita Chatterjee
Updated on: October 9, 2024 2:40 am GMT
SEPTA Plans Fare Increases Amid Budget Crisis
In a move that could impact thousands of commuters, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) has proposed a series of fare increases as it grapples with a significant budget shortfall of $240 million. This announcement, made during a news conference on Thursday, comes after the transit agency has exhausted federal COVID relief funds, leaving it facing a potential financial crisis.
Fare Changes Overview
Under the proposed changes, which are yet to be formally approved by the SEPTA board, the cost of a single ride on buses, subways, and trolleys is set to increase to $2.50, the same as the cash fare. Currently, SEPTA Key cardholders enjoy a discounted fare of $2, which would be eliminated if the proposal is approved. Additionally, discounts on Regional Rail fares would be eliminated, with some trips seeing price hikes of up to $1 per ride depending on the zones crossed.
Parking Fees Reinstated
SEPTA is also planning to reinstate parking fees at some of its transit agency-owned surface lots. Starting September 23, the fees at locations such as the Frankford Transportation Center and Lansdale will rise from $1 to $2 and from $2 to $4, respectively. These increases aim to help offset maintenance costs for the parking facilities.
Proposed Fare Increase Breakdown
- Bus, Subway, and Trolley Fares: Travel Wallet fare increases to $2.50.
- Regional Rail Fares: Price hikes of $0.25 to $1.75 depending on the travel zones.
- Parking Fees: Increases at agency-owned surface lots, with fees set to rise to $2 at some locations.
Future Public Hearings
SEPTA will conduct public hearings on October 16, where community members can express their opinions on the proposed fare adjustments. The board is expected to make a final decision on November 21, with the changes aiming to take effect by December 1.
The Rationale Behind the Increases
With a long-standing budget deficit exacerbated by the pandemic’s financial aftermath, the proposed fare hikes are seen as essential to maintaining reliable services for the city’s commuters. SEPTA CEO, Leslie S. Richards, emphasized the need for equitable fare proposals while acknowledging that no one wants to pay more for transit services. However, officials argue that without these adjustments, service cuts may become necessary in the near future.
Impact of State Funding
The agency received $43 million in one-time aid from the state budget, but board members maintain that this amount falls short of what is needed for long-term financial stability. The proposed fare increases aim to generate an additional $14.4 million annually, which would still leave SEPTA with significant operating budget gaps.
Looking Ahead
If approved, these fare and parking fee increases would be the first for SEPTA since 2017, marking a significant change for the agency and its riders. While SEPTA aims to boost revenue and avoid deeper financial issues, concerns over potential service cuts loom, with estimates suggesting fare increases might need to be revisited in the spring if state support does not improve.
Addressing Fare Evasion
In addition to the fare adjustments, SEPTA is cracking down on fare evasion, which the agency estimates costs between $30 million to $40 million annually. New fare gates have been installed to deter riders from bypassing payment methods.
As the deadline for comments gets closer, we want to remind everyone to join the public hearings about SEPTA’s plans to raise fares. This is a great chance for commuters and other supporters to share their thoughts and opinions. Don’t miss out on your chance to be heard!
