SEPTA aims to help riders navigate big change in routine ahead of cuts on Sunday
State lawmakers in Harrisburg remain at a stalemate over transit funding in the unfinished state budget.
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The first wave of SEPTA service cuts is set to begin Sunday morning, leaving riders across the city preparing for a major shift in their daily routines.
SEPTA held a news conference Friday morning to help passengers navigate the changes, which include a 20% reduction in bus and metro service and the elimination of 32 bus routes.
Riders are being urged to allow extra time for travel, as buses, trains, and trolleys are expected to be crowded, with some pass-ups likely.
"I use this particular route a lot and I used it to go to my doctor's appointment and to go home," said Marcus Gary of Mantua, who was riding the 31 bus to West Philadelphia on its final day of service.
Makayla Bowdren, also from Mantua, added, "I don't think I've ever been on this bus on the way home and it has not been packed."
Transit experts warn that the cuts could result in an additional 275,000 vehicles on the roads. Philadelphia Deputy Managing Director Mike Carroll said the city will increase staffing to monitor traffic and adjust signal timing as needed.
RELATED: Philadelphia region preparing with SEPTA cuts just a few days away
The changes come just ahead of a fare increase on September 1 and cuts to Regional Rail on September 2. They also coincide with the start of the new school year on Monday.
"We're entrusted with transporting more than 50,000 students," said Scott Sauer of SEPTA.
SEPTA Police Chief Chuck Lawson noted that his department will hold morning updates with school police to determine deployments before and after school.
"We expect to see larger crowds in neighborhoods across the city, and anytime you have a very large crowd of student travel, one spark could kick something off," Lawson said.
With SEPTA facing a $213 million deficit and no resolution in sight from state lawmakers in Harrisburg, the agency says the cuts are unavoidable.
RELATED: SEPTA service cuts could add 275,000 vehicles to local roads, experts warn
Governor Josh Shapiro is urging both parties to reach a long-term funding agreement, but SEPTA officials say even if a deal were reached now, service could not be restored immediately without impacting commuters.
As riders map out their next steps, some are already considering alternatives.
"The only thing I can really think of is catching the El," said Patrice Curtis of West Philadelphia.
Thelma from Northeast Philly added, "I have to see what's available and map it out on Monday."
SEPTA will have transit agents, officers, and ambassadors on hand to assist passengers and is encouraging riders to download the SEPTA app for guidance.
New SEPTA schedules reflecting service cuts as of August 24:
-Fall bus and metro schedule changes HERE
-Fall Regional Rail schedule changes HERE
