SEPTA is taking steps to combat fare evasion by installing new fare gates at nine additional subway stations by the end of next year. After a successful trial run of the nearly 8-foot-tall entryways at 69th Street Transportation Center, the agency plans to roll out the gates across more locations. The first installation is expected at City Hall Station on the Broad Street Line next spring.
The introduction of the new gates at 69th Street earlier this year was part of SEPTA’s efforts to reduce fare evasion, which is currently easier to commit at the turnstiles in use throughout the rest of the system. The data collected at 69th Street showed a significant increase in fare sales following the installation of the gates. It is estimated that having the gates at that station alone will bring in an additional $350,000 in revenue annually, according to SEPTA spokesperson Andrew Busch.
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SEPTA reports an annual loss of approximately $30 million due to fare evasion across its system. “We would expect to see similar results at other locations,” Busch stated.
On the Broad Street Line, the new gates will be installed at City Hall and Cecil B. Moore stations. Similarly, on the Market-Frankford Line, the gates will be added at Somerset, Huntingdon, Allegheny, 11th Street, 13th Street, and 52nd Street stations, as well as the Frankford Transportation Center. The $6.96 million contract with Conduent Solutions Inc., responsible for the SEPTA Key system, includes 100 of the new fare gates.
The taller gates are designed to deter individuals from jumping over the turnstiles, although they are not completely foolproof. Fare evaders can still “piggyback” behind paying customers or find ways to slip through the gates, but overall, the new gates are proving effective in reducing evasion.
SEPTA has also increased the presence of transit police to monitor and address fare evasion, which also contributes to overall safety. The new gates feature sensors that can detect fraudulent entry, distinguishing between adults, children, and individuals in wheelchairs.
These measures are part of SEPTA’s strategy to increase revenue amidst significant budget deficits. This includes reintroducing parking fees at Regional Rail stations and eliminating reduced fares, aiming to generate an additional $14 million annually. “It’s a step towards closing the budget gap and showing our commitment to responsible financial management,” Busch emphasized.