SEPTA Board Approves FY22 Budget
Written by Marybeth Luczak, Executive EditorThe Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) Board has signed off on the proposed $1.52 billion operating budget and $618.85 million capital budget for FY 2022, which starts July 1.
The proposals were released in April (download below).
The operating budget will allow SEPTA to increase service levels—without fare increases—in support of the region’s recovery from COVID-19, and also reflects initiatives launched as part of a new Efficiency and Accountability program, according to the agency.
Among the projects included in SEPTA’s capital budget and 12-year program, which totals $7.4 billion:
• $203.66 million for trolley modernization through 2033, with $30.14 million set aside for FY22. Work includes infrastructure upgrades in areas such as communications, signals, power, ADA stations, bridge improvements and maintenance facilities.
• $97.3 million for rail fleet replacement through 2033, including trolley cars, the Market-Frankford Line fleet and Silverliner IV Regional Rail vehicles. For FY22, $1.76 million is budgeted.
• $25 million through 2033 for a Bus Revolution initiative, which includes a comprehensive bus network redesign.
• Station improvements to bring full ADA accessibility to the Market-Frankford and Broad Street Lines by 2033.
“The capital budget plan also shows how uncertainty regarding state capital funding could impact SEPTA’s immediate and long-range capital program,” according to the agency. “SEPTA officials have been working closely with members of the Legislature in Harrisburg [Pa.] to highlight the importance of public transportation to the region and the Commonwealth.”
“SEPTA has kept our region moving through the pandemic, and we need a sustainable, bondable funding source in order to support the recovery,” SEPTA General Manager/CEO Leslie S. Richards said. “We are working with leaders at all levels of government to ensure SEPTA can fulfill its core mission of moving people safely, affordably and equitably now and in the years to come.”
