PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Gov. Josh Shapiro’s upcoming budget proposal will include an injection of much-needed funding for mass transit systems in the commonwealth, including SEPTA, which faces a fiscal cliff.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Shapiro administration said it is looking to add nearly $283 million for mass transit — a 1.75% increase in the state’s share of public transit funding. It would add up to about $1.5 billion over five years.
“Investing in and improving our public transit systems is a commonsense way to create good-paying jobs, spur economic development, and help Pennsylvanians reach their destinations safely,” Shapiro said.
Not all of the funding would go to SEPTA, but Shapiro specifically mentioned the agency’s need for additional funding.
“SEPTA has presented plans to address safety and cleanliness throughout their system, and county officials have entertained a willingness to step up to the plate and increase their support — as a result, my administration is prepared to make a major investment in SEPTA,” he said.
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SEPTA CEO and General Manager Leslie Richards praised Shapiro for his proposal, which she said would provide “additional support for SEPTA for the first time in over a decade.”
"In these discussions,” Richards continued, “the governor has also made clear his expectations that we at SEPTA step up to address our community’s serious concerns about cleanliness and safety. We are committed to addressing these concerns so that all SEPTA riders can feel safe as they travel where they need to go.”
SEPTA is facing a $240 million budget gap as federal pandemic relief money drys up. Officials are warning that service could be cut by 20%. Chestnut Hill West riders, for example, fear their line could be on the chopping block.
Fares could also increase by 30%.
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The governor’s budget address, which is scheduled to take place on Feb. 6, will also include plans to bolster higher education spending in Pennsylvania.
Shapiro’s office previewed a three-part blueprint on Friday, which proposes bringing all state schools and community colleges under one governance system. There would also be a cap of $1,000 in tuition and fees per semester for Pennsylvania families making a median income of around $70,000.