SEPTA Approves Major Budget Plan with Fare Hikes and Cuts

SEPTA approved its 2026 operating budget, which includes sharp service cuts and fare increases to address a $213 million deficit starting this August. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Starting August 24, SEPTA will reduce rail service by 45% across all lines. On September 1, fares will increase by 21.5%, bringing the base Metro fare to $2.90.

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The agency also plans to implement a full hiring freeze to limit operating expenses. These moves are part of a broader cost-saving strategy.

SEPTA leadership confirmed that five Regional Rail lines will shut down permanently on January 1, 2026. Remaining lines will stop running after 9 p.m. daily.

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The agency blames the shortfall on the end of federal COVID-19 aid and increasing safety-related costs. Though ridership has returned, operating costs have risen sharply.

Transit officials added that SEPTA has already cut spending and boosted revenue, but these efforts were not enough to close the gap.

Pennsylvania law required the board to pass the budget before July 1. But SEPTA still hopes for additional state-level support to avoid long-term damage.

SEPTA Relies on State Action to Prevent Transit Collapse

Earlier in 2025, Governor Josh Shapiro proposed new transit funding, which passed the state House last week. SEPTA leaders urge lawmakers to finalize it soon.

Without extra state aid, SEPTA could permanently lose its role as the region’s transit backbone, affecting commuters, jobs, and economic growth.

The cuts may be irreversible if state funds do not materialize before the implementation deadlines. Officials warn the consequences will be long-lasting.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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