Exciting news for SEPTA commuters! Starting next month, SEPTA is ramping up its Regional Rail services to accommodate the increasing demand. A total of 99 more trains will be operating on weekends, along with an additional 24 trains on weekdays.
This boost in train frequency will be implemented on Sunday, Sept. 8, and is made possible by an extensive recruitment and training effort to expand crews. This means more convenient and efficient travel for passengers across the SEPTA network.
Weekend travelers can look forward to the full restoration of 30-minute service between Philadelphia International Airport and Center City, as well as hourly service being fully reinstated on most Regional Rail lines. On both weekdays and weekends, there will be adjustments to arrival and departure times, so be sure to check the updated fall Regional Rail schedule to plan your commute accordingly.
In addition to the increased train frequencies, SEPTA is introducing more late-night and midday services on most lines, as well as adding extra rail cars during peak times to prevent overcrowding. These enhancements are particularly crucial as weekend Regional Rail ridership has been surpassing weekday ridership recovery post-COVID-19.
Despite facing financial challenges, SEPTA remains committed to improving its service for riders. The new Regional Rail services will bring SEPTA back to 84% of its pre-pandemic capacity on weekends and 80% on weekdays. This expansion is made possible with additional funding from Pennsylvania lawmakers.
But that’s not all! As SEPTA gears up for increased Regional Rail services, it will also be reinstating parking fees at its lots and garages. Starting on Sept. 23, parking fees will gradually be phased in across all lots by Nov. 15, with daily rates doubling to $2 at lots and $4 at garages. However, parking will remain free on weekends and major holidays.
SEPTA CEO and General Manager Leslie Richards emphasized the importance of these investments in making the system more reliable for passengers. Despite financial hurdles, SEPTA is pushing ahead to provide a better commuting experience for all who rely on its services.