PHILADELPHIA, PA – SEPTA today announced plans to increase fares across the system by 21.5% and cut service nearly in half across all modes of transit, leaving many without access to employment, education, and healthcare.
These plans would lead to massive drops in ridership and the dismantlement of our transit system after generations of investment. The result? Workers, students, residents and visitors would lose a critical transportation option. Employers would experience increased hiring challenges. And worst of all, talent and businesses could leave the region altogether.
SEPTA projects a loss of over 75,000 jobs in our region due to inadequate transit funding, devastating local businesses, fragmenting neighborhoods, and contracting our regional economy. The Chamber urges state lawmakers to take decisive action to enact a dedicated funding solution that will avert these planned fare increases and service cuts.
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About the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia
The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia works together with members, investors, and stakeholders, to realize our bold vision: Greater Philadelphia is a top global destination for business and a leader in inclusive growth. As the metro-regional chamber of commerce serving the 11-county, tri-state Greater Philadelphia region, we are the premier organization to convene and connect business, government and civic leaders to drive economic growth and prosperity for all.
Contact:
Shannon McLaughlin
smclaughlin@chamberphl.com
