by Philadelphia, PA – The city of Philadelphia announced Thursday that SEPTA will restore several bus routes next week to help students commute amid ongoing service reductions. The move comes after widespread disruption during the first week of the school year.
Restored Routes and Service Details
The restored services will take effect on Tuesday, September 2, as part of a $135 million transit subsidy in the city’s 2026 budget. The following bus lines will be reinstated:
- Six 400-level routes: 452, 461, 462, 476, 478, 484
- Augmented service on routes serving many students: 14, 20, 23, 26, 47, 63, 67, 70, 82, T2, and T5
Other routes, including 84, 88, and partial service on Route 31, will be restored at a later date. SEPTA will publish updated schedules for these routes in mid-September.
Mayor Cherelle Parker praised the move, saying, “Making sure that all of our city’s children and youth can get to school on time and safely is one of our top priorities.” SEPTA also thanked city officials for supporting students amid the cuts.
Impact on Students and Schools
The School District of Philadelphia reported a 63% increase in late arrivals and a 54% increase in absences during the first three days of school compared to last year. Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington said the restored routes are expected to improve student attendance and academic outcomes.
Local students, like sophomore PJ Dorn, rely on SEPTA buses for school. While relieved about the restoration, Dorn expressed concern about potential delays and uncertainty over schedules.
More Cuts and Fare Increases Coming
According to CBS News, The service restoration comes amid a larger $200 million SEPTA budget deficit, which triggered:
- Elimination of 32 bus routes
- Shortened service on 16 routes
- Reduced service on 88 bus and Metro lines
- End of special services, including Sports Express trains
A 21.5% fare increase will take effect Monday, raising bus and Metro fares from $2.50 to $2.90, with Regional Rail fares increasing $1–$2 per ride. Additional Regional Rail service reductions start Tuesday after Labor Day.
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Legislative Stalemate Over SEPTA Funding
State Democrats and Republicans remain at an impasse over SEPTA funding. Governor Josh Shapiro said negotiations are nearing a resolution but both sides must compromise.
- Republican proposals to use $300 million annually from the Pennsylvania Transit Trust Fund were voted down by House Democrats.
- House Democrats’ plan to increase sales tax revenue for mass transit failed in the Senate.
Meanwhile, a lawsuit challenging SEPTA’s cuts claims they disproportionately impact minority and low-income riders. An emergency hearing is scheduled for Friday.
What Commuters Should Know
Philadelphia commuters should check SEPTA schedules before traveling and plan for ongoing service disruptions and fare increases. The city and SEPTA continue to emphasize the importance of equitable, safe, and reliable transportation for all riders.
How have SEPTA’s service cuts affected your daily commute? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
