SEPTA is planning to increase fares by 29 percent from the current rates and also shut down many routes in an effort to help fund its operating expenses.

The decision was made this week after it became clear that much needed state funding may not be coming any time soon. SEPTA faces a $240 million budget deficit. SEPTA is also currently negotiating a new contract with its workers’ union, Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 234, which is demanding wage increases and safety improvements for both passengers and transit workers.

A bill funding SEPTA $161 million per year has passed the Pennsylvania State House with bipartisan support, but is being stalled in the Senate.

Starting January 1, 2025, SEPTA fares may increase to $2.90 per ride, according to a proposal announced this week. This is the second fare increase proposed by SEPTA this year. The first increase, from $2.00 to $2.50 per ride for SEPTA Key and contactless card users, was proposed in September and will likely become effective on Dec. 1.

SEPTA may introduce more fare increases in the future, because of what one official called the “transit death spiral.” SEPTA may also cut service by 20 percent next year and pull back Bus Revolution, the bus network redesign plan which was expected to go into effect next year.

SEPTA will present the proposed fare changes at two public hearings on Dec. 13, at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Members of the public may attend the hearings in person at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch Street, or remotely via virtual conferencing. Additional details on how individuals can register to attend via virtual conferencing will be posted at www.septa.org/notice. Those wishing to speak at the morning and afternoon session in person or via virtual conferencing must register by the start time on the day of the public hearing.

More information on the proposed fare changes can be found here.