PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — SEPTA is installing new bus stop signs, as it prepares for its first round of bus route changes next month.
Phase 1 of the transit authority’s New Bus Network will be implemented on August 23-24, cutting seven routes (the 35, 47M, 62, 78, 80, 89 and 106 routes), adding two new ones and extending or altering others.
The goal of the changes is to eliminate duplicative and low-ridership routes, while improving the connectivity and frequency of existing ones, so that riders wait less for their buses and have an easier time linking with other public transit services.
SEPTA says routes 45, 53, 60, 61, 79 and 105 will see “strategic extensions,” including connecting route 45 to the Navy Yard. The 17, 25, 44, 49, 52, 57 and 64 will also see “alignment changes.”
Meanwhile, new routes are being added with the 72 on Cheltenham Avenue, between Frankford Transit Center and Cedarbrook Plaza, and the 76 along Columbus Boulevard, between Rising Sun Loop and Columbus Commons.
According to SEPTA General Manager Scott Sauer, the agency will be busy putting up permanent and temporary signage on buses and at bus stops over the next month, informing riders of upcoming changes.
“We are really mobilizing our teams now to get out in the field,” he said. “Meet customers where they are — on the buses, at the bus stops, getting our communications campaign in full swing.”
Riders can learn more about the coming changes at https://wwww.septa.org/initiatives/bus/. The website includes a convenient “Phase 1 Trip Planner” to help visualize how route changes will affect commutes.
Phase 1 of the New Bus Network will cut seven routes, add two new ones and extend or alter others
Phase 1 of the New Bus Network will cut seven routes, add two new ones and extend or alter others
