Philadelphia Addresses SEPTA Cuts

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia officials addressed transportation issues that will stem from major SEPTA service cuts that are set to be implemented Sunday.

"We continue to be optimistic that there will be a resolution, and we stand behind Governor Josh Shapiro and his plan for a dedicated, recurring source of revenue for SEPTA," Mayor Cherelle Parker said. "We have faith in Speaker Joanna McClinton, Appropriations Chairman Vincent Hughes, Appropriations Chairman Jordan Harris, House Majority Leader Matt Bradford and our Republican legislative leaders to find common ground and 'get to yes'."

>>RELATED: See Details On SEPTA Service Reductions Here<<<

Parker said the city took the most important action it could when officials passed a city budget and Five-Year Plan in June, with $792 million in operating and capital funds for SEPTA.

>>>If You See This Sign, That Means Your SEPTA Route Is Slated For Elimination<<<

"We have no intention of giving up. We're working with the School District of Philadelphia, and it's not just about the children. It’s the parents who need to get to work, the seniors, industries and other stakeholders," Parker said. "For Philadelphia, Montco, Delco, Bucks and Chester, this is about our economic survival, our quality of living, how we serve as the foundation of the economy for the entire Commonwealth."

As of today, the Pennsylvania General Assembly has not passed a statewide 2025-2026 budget, leading to a budget impasse. Without new state funding approved, SEPTA must operate using only currently available funds.

>>>RELATED: SEPTA Cuts Could Impact Amtrak Service In PA<<<

The city is working with SEPTA and other stakeholders to ensure that travelers can access the most useful resources for planning their trips.

The Department of Streets and Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems will be actively monitoring rush hour traffic and are standing up resources now to level up arterial and intersection management.

"We all know the best way to keep the region moving and to keep the local and state economy going will be for SEPTA to be fully funded in the State budget," Mike Carroll, Deputy Managing Director, Transportation and Infrastructure said. "Of course, there is no substitute for SEPTA, but in the meantime, we must adapt to new patterns of travel."

Officials have identified park-and-ride options for travelers from outlying communities.

They also encourage members of the public to talk with family, friends and co-workers to identify opportunities for carpooling, as well as speaking with employers in order to understand what work options are available.

For more information, the city will be maintaining a blog post with frequent updates.