SEPTA to release new schedules amid Aug. 24 service cuts

PHILADELPHIA (WPHL) — SEPTA is set to release new bus, trolley and regional train schedules that will take effect on August 24 if the transportation system cannot secure state funding to avoid service cuts.

PHL17.com will live stream a news conference taking place on Wednesday, August 6 at 10 a.m.

SEPTA’s general manager and chief planning and strategy officer will host the news conference at SEPTA Headquarters to address the impact of the $213 million budget deficit. Earlier this year, SEPTA announced service would be reduced by 20%. To avoid service cuts and drastic fare increases, state lawmakers must approve a budget that would enable SEPTA to maintain service levels while implementing modest fare increases.

Shrinking the system involves eliminating 50 bus routes, 5 regional rail lines, and all special service and off-peak schedules including Sports Express. SEPTA will close 66 train stations and a 9 p.m. curfew would be enforced on all Metro and regional rail services.

SEPTA will begin the process of implement critical tasks in order to make the transition.

In order to safely and efficiently transfer to the new schedule, SEPTA will spend the next few weeks finalizing service change plans including staffing schedules and potential training for employees who are reassigned, reprograming digital signage and automated announcements, updating and signal and dispatch systems, and coordinating with maintenance teams to ensure vehicle availability matches the new service plan. SEPTA said more critical tasks must be complete before the switch. The process would usually take about three weeks, however with the looming Aug. 24 deadline, they must shorten the process.

SEPTA officials will further discuss the schedules and the deadline in Wednesday’s news conference.