PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Among the hundreds of thousands impacted by the 20% SEPTA service cuts being phased in next week are the more than 16% of Philadelphians with disabilities.
Cassandra West, chief officer of access for SEPTA’s paratransit and small bus operations, says those riders will still have options.
“You won't see a big impact to paratransit service, but I do think that we may see an increase in paratransit riders,” West said.
SEPTA is eliminating 32 bus routes, shortening 16 others, and running less frequent service on 88 remaining lines.
On Sept. 1, a 21.5% fare increase takes effect, as well as a hiring freeze. The base fare will also increase to $2.90. Regional Rail service cuts take effect on Sept. 2.
Where fixed routes are being eliminated, SEPTA is required by the Americans with Disabilities Act to provide paratransit.
“A person who was able to get to the bus stop that's two blocks away may not be able to get to a bus stop that's five or six blocks away, and that would make them paratransit eligible,” West said. “That means that we will likely, you know, start adding runs, adding vehicles, because we are required to meet that demand.”
West says in the suburbs, where lines are being eliminated, SEPTA has worked with advocates and county agencies to identify impacted riders and connect them with other transportation.
“This is not something that we want to happen. … it's painful. … we're just trying to do everything we can to keep them informed.”
For more information, visit SEPTA.org or call the customer service line at 215-580-7800.