PHILADELPHIA, PA — SEPTA is set to enhance its Regional Rail service by introducing 99 additional weekend trains and 24 weekday trains starting September 8. This expansion will bring weekday service back to 80% and weekend service to 84% of pre-pandemic levels, a notable improvement from current figures. Despite a $240 million annual budget deficit, SEPTA is committed to enhancing service reliability for its riders.
SEPTA CEO Leslie S. Richards emphasized the urgency of addressing the financial shortfall while continuing critical investments in the rail system. “Despite this funding crisis, we cannot put critical investments in our system on hold,” Richards stated, highlighting the organization’s commitment to its riders.
The increased service is part of SEPTA’s Reimagining Regional Rail initiative, aiming to improve off-peak, evening, and weekend travel. Key changes include restoring 30-minute weekend service to Philadelphia International Airport, expanding hourly weekend service on most lines, and connecting Airport Line service to the Manayunk/Norristown Line for a seamless airport-to-Norristown weekend ride.
Additionally, SEPTA will address overcrowding by adding more railcars, especially during mid-week peaks, and make schedule adjustments to enhance punctuality. During a state of good repair project on the Warminster Line, shuttle buses will replace trains between Warminster and select stations from September 7 through November 3.
SEPTA will also resume parking fees on September 23 after a four-year hiatus, with daily rates rising at surface lots and garages. The new SEPTA Park app will offer convenient payment options, facilitating a smoother experience for commuters.
With these strategic changes, SEPTA aims to boost ridership and service quality, navigating financial challenges while meeting the evolving needs of the greater Philadelphia area.
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