SEPTA, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, is proposing fare changes to address a $240 million annual budget deficit. One of the proposed changes includes eliminating the discount currently given to riders who use SEPTA Key cards and other contactless payment methods to ride buses, subways, and trolleys.
The proposed fare adjustments would raise SEPTA Key swipes and other payment methods to $2.50 from the discounted rate of $2. This change is aimed at increasing revenue for SEPTA. Riders who pay in cash or use single-ride Quik Trips already pay $2.50 for each fare.
Other proposed changes include eliminating discounts for Regional Rail riders using the SEPTA Key, as well as various fare increases for Regional Rail zones. The proposal also impacts Regional Rail rates for certain groups of riders, including out-of-state seniors and those who qualify for reduced fares.
PATCO riders using Freedom Share cards for SEPTA’s buses, trolleys, and subways would also see their fares increase from $2 to $2.50.
The proposed changes are estimated to generate an additional $14.4 million in annual revenue. Public hearings on the proposal are scheduled for next month.
SEPTA recently received a one-time additional payment of $51 million from Pennsylvania lawmakers as part of the current state budget. However, this is not sufficient to prevent further fare increases and potential service cuts in the future.
SEPTA Board Chair Ken Lawrence emphasized the need for action to ensure reliable services for the city and the region.
Starting on September 23, SEPTA will reinstate parking fees at all Regional Rail lots and parking garages for the first time since 2020. The rates will be $2 at parking lots and $4 at select parking garages.
The last fare increase by SEPTA was in 2017, when cash fares and Quik Trips were raised from $2.25 to $2.50. Public hearings for the proposed fare changes are set for Wednesday, October 16, offering both in-person and remote attendance options.