Without additional funding from state lawmakers, Philly’s transit agency says it will “begin dismantling” the system on August 14.
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) set an August 14 deadline to “begin dismantling” the transit system without additional funding from state lawmakers, reports Tom MacDonald for WHYY.
The agency, which faces a $213 budget deficit, says it will have to eliminate 32 bus routes and reduce service significantly on all rail lines. “Special services like the express trains that take fans to the sports complex in South Philly will no longer be in operation. Starting Sept. 1, fares will rise by 21.5%.”
SEPTA says the agency needs a clear deadline for state funding so it can finalize work schedules, signage, and other items related to the service cuts. According to SEPTA’s Chief Planning and Strategy Officer Jody Holton, “These service cuts are unprecedented and not just for SEPTA, no major transit agency has had to take steps this drastic.”
Without new funding, the agency is planning a second round of cuts next year that would end its five regional rail lines, 18 bus lines, and reduce service further.
FULL STORY: SEPTA sets Aug. 14 deadline to ‘begin dismantling’ the transit system without new state funding
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