In late October, SEPTA’s board voted to shift funds from its capital budget, which is typically earmarked for facility upgrades and improvements, to prevent further service cuts. That decision followed an emergency approval from PennDOT to restore full service after earlier budget cuts caused the Philadelphia-area transit system to scale back operations. A Philadelphia judge ordered the agency to reverse the 20% service cuts.
“SEPTA is essential to the economic vitality of our region and Commonwealth, and without sufficient support, we are at risk of falling behind competitively,” Sauer said. “Just last week, voters across the country approved 13 ballot measures that will deliver over $11 billion for public transit improvements, expansions, operations and infrastructure.”
SEPTA is facing a $213 million budget deficit. Senate Republicans have introduced legislation that would require biennial reports on its financial progress and use of state funds, while also tackling fare evasion, expanding public-private partnerships, and improving bus routes.
“SEPTA is committed to doing its part by demanding fiscal discipline and accountability across the Authority and continuing with efforts to improve service reliability, safety and security and customer service,” Sauer said.
In the meantime, Regional Rail riders are currently dealing with delays as SEPTA conducts federally mandated inspections on its Silverliner IV railcars, which date back as far as the mid-1970s, following multiple fires this year. Select trains will be canceled on the Airport, Chestnut Hill West, Fox Chase and Warminster lines on Thursday.
