PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) recently announced the final proposal for its Bus Revolution project. This marks the Authority’s first comprehensive redesign of the bus network, aiming to significantly improve frequency, access, and reliability for riders across the region. The announcement follows a robust community engagement campaign, including collaboration with City Council Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson and other council members to gather input from various neighborhoods.
Scheduled for a vote by the SEPTA Board on May 23, the proposed changes promise a 30% increase in frequent routes, with buses arriving every 15 minutes or better from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. This initiative is designed to provide more residents with access to fast, reliable public transportation, facilitating easier commutes to work, education, healthcare, and other essential services.
SEPTA CEO and General Manager Leslie S. Richards emphasized the collaborative effort behind the redesign, stating, “We have worked closely with City Council and our riders, operators, and stakeholders for more than two years to deliver a plan that will make our bus network more frequent, reliable, and accessible across the entire region.” She further highlighted the commitment to continuous dialogue with the community to ensure the new network meets the needs of all users.
Key changes under the revamped network include the reinstatement of several routes in their full alignments, such as Route 32 between Roxborough and South Broad Street and Route 16 to City Hall, among others. Additionally, Route 18 in Cedarbrook and Route 52 trips serving 54th and City Ave have been adjusted in response to specific feedback from City Council, reflecting the effort to tailor the service to local needs.
The proposal represents the culmination of extensive outreach, with SEPTA hosting over 200 public meetings and considering more than 10,000 comments to refine the bus network redesign. This participatory approach underscores the Authority’s dedication to creating a transit system that reflects the priorities and requirements of its diverse user base.
Once approved, SEPTA plans to roll out a comprehensive communications campaign to familiarize riders with the new routes and changes. The phased implementation of the redesigned network is set to begin in summer 2025, continuing through fall 2025.
This ambitious project not only signifies a significant leap towards enhancing public transportation in Philadelphia but also sets a precedent for engaging communities in the planning process. By focusing on frequent, direct, and reliable services, SEPTA aims to foster a more connected and accessible city, underscoring the critical role of public transit in urban living.
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