Delaware Governor Matt Meyer is urging SEPTA to maintain its Wilmington/Newark rail line, stressing the route’s role in connecting residents across state lines and supporting their daily lives. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Delaware Governor Matt Meyer is urging SEPTA to maintain its Wilmington/Newark rail line, stressing the route’s role in connecting residents across state lines and supporting their daily lives
Photo: SEPTA

The 41.1-mile SEPTA line runs from Philadelphia to Newark, with four Delaware stations: Claymont, Wilmington, Churchmans Crossing, and Newark. It serves over 4,100 weekday riders and supports regional mobility.

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SEPTA plans to cut service on this line and four others by 45% if Pennsylvania lawmakers fail to approve additional transit funding, which would deepen a $213 million budget shortfall.

Although Delaware Transit Corp. shares oversight of the line, a provision allows SEPTA to cancel service with just 60 days’ notice if funding lapses in Pennsylvania. This clause raises concerns for Delaware riders.

Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed using sales and use taxes to support SEPTA, but the plan remains blocked in the Republican-controlled Senate. Without compromise, vital commuter routes may disappear.

SEPTA Rail Line Supports Commuters and Economic Stability

Governor Meyer emphasized that the Wilmington/Newark service is essential for working families who rely on efficient, affordable transportation between Delaware and Pennsylvania each day.

He pledged to collaborate with SEPTA and Pennsylvania leaders to prevent service disruption. Meyer believes this partnership can help secure long-term solutions for funding and service reliability.

Public Hearings Conclude as SEPTA Considers Service Cuts

SEPTA ends its three-day public hearing process today, gathering input on the proposed budget and cuts. Officials face growing pressure to protect essential transit routes and restore rider confidence.

In 2024, the line reached 66% of pre-pandemic ridership in May but dropped to 51% by January. Service reductions now threaten that fragile recovery and could hurt future ridership.

Governor Meyer reiterated Delaware’s commitment to exploring shared solutions, underscoring the importance of uninterrupted SEPTA service for both states.

Source: www.trains.com

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