SEPTA ambassadors help riders plan for potential cuts
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- We are now within a week of SEPTA implementing major service cuts and fare hikes amid a multi-million dollar budget shortfall.
That's why the transit agency is deploying ambassadors at the transportation centers in the Philadelphia region that will be most affected.
Starting Monday morning, riders should look for SEPTA employees in yellow vests that say "ambassador" on the back.
The ambassadors will help answer questions, direct you to resources, and assist with making sure riders have a backup plan before cuts begin on Sunday, Aug. 24.
"We have to move now as if this is definitely going to happen," said Lex Powers, SEPTA deputy chief communications officer.
The 69th Street Transportation Center in Upper Darby, Pa., will lose four bus routes under the current reduction plan.
"It's kind of a death spiral," said rider Chris Vanni.
MORE | SEPTA urges riders to start planning now for upcoming service cuts that begin on Aug. 24
Ambassadors will be at transportation centers this week and next week to help riders navigate changes.
"We haven't had a change of this magnitude to our transit system all at once, so a lot of people who are used to taking one route might have to find alternatives for the first time," Powers said.
The SEPTA website and mobile app are now updated with options to help you plan your trip.
"Just trying to figure out how I'm going to rework not just my work schedule but also my weekend schedule," said rider Ryan McCann.
MORE | Get the latest on the SEPTA commuter crisis here.
The first phase of service cuts begins on Sunday, and then the cost to ride will increase by 20% on Sept 1st.
After that, the largest phase of cuts will go into effect at the beginning of next year, when nearly half of SEPTA's services could be reduced or eliminated.
"It's a challenge, but we have to adapt," said rider Joseph Powell.
Lawmakers in Harrisburg remain at a standstill over how to provide SEPTA with the $213 million it needs to avoid these cuts.
SEPTA officials said the agency is prepared to keep services running as normal if a deal is met before Sunday, but might need at least a week to make adjustments if cuts are made on Aug. 24.
You can learn more about the planned cuts at SEPTA.org
