1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

Transit riders across the region are facing devastating impacts due to SEPTA's funding crisis. Without a permanent funding solution from the state, nearly half of SEPTA's service will be cut, and fares will increase by over 20%. This crippling reduction in transit access threatens the economic vitality and quality of life in our communities. The proposed cuts eliminate 50 bus routes, 5 Regional Rail lines, special services like the Sports Express, and would shutter 66 stations entirely. Additionally, there would be a 9pm curfew on remaining Metro and Regional Rail services. These drastic measures are projected to result in staggering losses - $19.9 billion in household property values, 76,700 potential jobs and $6 billion in earnings, $11.4 billion in lost tax revenue, and an annual $674 million tax hit to the region and state. Reliable public transportation is essential infrastructure that drives economic growth, connects people to jobs and opportunities, reduces traffic congestion and emissions. An investment in SEPTA is an investment in Pennsylvania's future. Urgent state action is needed to properly fund SEPTA's operating expenses and avoid this catastrophic disinvestment that will reverberate through our communities for decades. Providing sufficient resources to maintain robust service levels while implementing modest fare increases is crucial to positioning our transit system and state to welcome visitors for major upcoming events like the 2026 celebrations and FIFA World Cup. The return on investment from adequately funding SEPTA's operations will pay exponential dividends.