The state has not offered a sustainable source of funding to meet the transit agency’s $240 million budget gap.
Officials from Philadelphia’s Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) are warning that the agency will have to make steep fare hikes and service cuts as it faces a $240 million budget shortfall.
As Joe Brandt reports for CBS News, SEPTA COO Scott Sauer made a dire prediction: “Service cuts and fare increases resulting from fewer riders, lead to more service cuts and more fare increases, resulting in fewer riders. Until ultimately public transit is no longer relevant.”
Even before the pandemic, the agency relied heavily on state, local, and federal subsidies to make up the gap between fare revenue and its operating expenses.
Under the agency’s plan, fares will increase by almost 30 percent in 2025, while service will be cut by 20 percent across the board. SEPTA has already reinstated parking fees at agency-owned lots and eliminated rider discounts.
FULL STORY: How is SEPTA funded? Inside the Philadelphia transit agency's budget – and what's behind the "death spiral"
SEPTA Awarded $153 Million to Stave Off Fare Hikes
Philadelphia’s struggling transit system will be able to delay a 30 percent fare raise, but the temporary fix won't do nearly enough to close its budget gap.
SEPTA Faces Service Cuts
Philadelphia wants its city workers back in the office, but getting there may be a challenge.
Transit Service Cuts Likely Coming to Your Town
Absent additional state or federal funding, public transit systems across the nation could be forced to reduce service.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design
Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.
Amtrak Breaks Ridership Record in FY 2024
More Americans than ever rode the rails last year, also bringing the agency its highest ticket revenue.
Commentary: Colorado Will Forge Ahead With Conservation Work
While federal policy may become less friendly to environmental efforts, support from state legislators and agencies can prevent the state from backsliding.
Expanding the Mission: Community Groups Serving Schools
Some community development organizations have added education to their traditional focus on housing and economic development, looking for ways to support families and children by partnering with local school districts. How is it working?
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Caltrans
Los Alamos County
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners