Harry Cummins
Updated on: October 9, 2024 2:38 am GMT
SEPTA Plans Fare Hike Amid Budget Deficit
In a significant move affecting commuters in Philadelphia, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) has announced plans to raise fares and eliminate discounts for riders, as the transit agency grapples with a projected $240 million budget deficit. SEPTA officials outlined the proposed changes during a press conference on Thursday, highlighting that the adjustments aim to improve the agency’s financial stability while maintaining reliable service for the region.
Key Changes to Fare Structure
Under the proposed fare structure changes, the cost of riding SEPTA would increase for many commuters starting December 1, 2024. The current Travel Wallet fare for buses, subways, and trolleys would rise to $2.50, aligning it with the cash fare. Previously established discounts for SEPTA Key cardholders and those using credit or debit cards would be eliminated, effectively raising costs for these riders.
- Increased Single-Trip Fares: Many Regional Rail routes will see fare increases, which could range from $0.25 to $1.75 depending on the zone.
- Equalization of Payment Methods: The elimination of the $2 fare for Key cardholders means all riders, regardless of payment method, would pay the full fare.
- Changes to Transfers: The proposal introduces more flexibility for transfers, allowing round trips in the same direction without incurring an additional fare, provided it occurs within two hours.
While daily, weekly, and monthly pass prices will remain unchanged, these fare adjustments represent the agency’s response to financial challenges exacerbated by the end of federal COVID-19 relief funding.
Parking Fees and Fare Evasion Measures
In addition to fare hikes, SEPTA will also reinstate parking fees for its surface lots, a move aimed at offsetting maintenance costs. Parking fees at selected locations, including Frankford Transportation Center and Norristown, will rise from $1 to $2, and from $2 to $4, effective from September 23, 2024.
SEPTA is also stepping up efforts to combat fare evasion, which has previously cost the agency an estimated $30 to $40 million annually. New fare gates have been installed at various stations to discourage this practice and ensure fair revenue collection.
Public Hearings and Board Approval
Before the proposed fare changes can take effect, the public will have the opportunity to voice their opinions during hearings scheduled for October 16, at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. These sessions will be held both in person at SEPTA headquarters and online via WebEx. Following these hearings, the SEPTA Board will convene on November 21 to vote on the fare adjustments.
SEPTA’s Financial Outlook
SEPTA Board Chair Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr. expressed cautious optimism about a potential funding agreement with the state but emphasized the urgency of addressing the transit authority’s financial needs. He stated, “The SEPTA Board has worked tirelessly to advocate for transit funding… but we need to act now to ensure that SEPTA is best positioned to provide reliable service to the city and region.”
With past fare increases occurring in 2017 and deferred adjustments from 2020 due to the pandemic, SEPTA’s management is preparing for the possibility of further fare increases if additional state funding does not materialize.
Conclusion: A Path Forward for SEPTA
SEPTA officials are trying to make their finances better, but this means that riders might have to pay more to get around in the next few months. They are planning to change fares and bring back parking fees, which are the first steps in a bigger plan to keep the agency stable. They also want to improve safety and the quality of service. Riders should keep an eye out for updates about these changes.
