City budget may threaten SEPTA’s subsidized fare program, according to council member, in latest council discussions.
Philadelphia’s subsidized fare program, known as Zero Fare, has emerged as a focal point of contention in the city’s budget discussions, raising concerns among transit advocates about its future viability. Originally proposed by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker in March 2023, the initiative aimed to eliminate the Zero Fare program, which serves approximately 25,000 Philadelphians living in poverty and is part of a two-year pilot program with an estimated budget of million.
In response to significant pushback from members of the Philadelphia City Council and transit advocates, the Parker administration has since indicated a willingness to negotiate with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) to continue the program. Nonetheless, City Council members are noting potential shortcomings in the upcoming .8 billion city budget, which they believe could undermine the Zero Fare initiative.
Councilmember Nicolas O’Rourke expressed concern that the projected funding for Zero Fare will drastically decrease from an estimated million in the current fiscal year to only million beginning July 1. This reduction raises significant questions about the program’s ability to continue supporting low-income riders. The potential cut in funding has led O’Rourke to warn that many of the residents reliant on this program might face a premature termination of their benefits unless alternative funding sources are identified.
The Parker administration, which has been in discussions with SEPTA, previously announced intentions to extend the Zero Fare Pilot through Fiscal Year 2026. Additionally, a past agreement was made with SEPTA to maintain the Key Advantage program, which covers fares for thousands of city employees, despite initial proposals to cut its funding.
As developments unfold, O’Rourke is advocating for the establishment of a Transit Access Fund, which would allocate a portion of the city’s General Fund to ensure the sustainability of Zero Fare. Emphasizing public mobility as a fundamental right, he has called on the administration to secure adequate funding for the program, urging the community to join efforts geared towards safeguarding access for low-income individuals.
In addition to transit issues, other items discussed in the City Council meetings include new legislation aimed at the creation of a protected bike lane around City Hall and a tax credit initiative to support Philadelphia-based performing artists. Both measures reflect the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance urban infrastructure and support local culture.
With budgetary negotiations still underway and significant advocacy efforts in play, the fate of the Zero Fare program remains uncertain, highlighting the complex interplay of transit funding and social equity in Philadelphia. As discussions continue, stakeholders from various sectors will be watching closely to see how the city navigates these challenges.
