Shapiro urges Senate action on recurring funding for mass transit agencies

Governor Josh Shapiro visited the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) Headquarters to meet with SEPTA leadership, including General Manager Scott Sauer, and transit riders. The discussion focused on the importance of public transit for Pennsylvanians and its role in supporting the state’s economy.

After the meeting, Governor Shapiro urged the state Senate to pass legislation that would provide ongoing funding for SEPTA and other mass transit agencies across Pennsylvania. He emphasized that reliable public transportation is essential for residents commuting to work and students traveling to school.

Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis met with Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) at the same time to underscore the need for increased funding for Western Pennsylvania’s transit system. PRT has indicated it may have to make significant service cuts and raise fares if the proposed budget from Governor Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor Davis is not approved by the Senate.

Governor Shapiro highlighted his administration’s achievements since taking office, stating that over $380 million in new funding has been allocated to roads and bridges throughout Pennsylvania. This investment has improved more than 12,000 miles of roads and advanced bridge repairs statewide.

For two consecutive years, Governor Shapiro has advocated for a substantial increase in state support for public transit—the first such proposal in over ten years. His budget plan for 2025-26 includes $292 million in additional mass transit funding, with a projected total of $1.5 billion over five years.

“Public transit serves as a lifeline for many Pennsylvanians and powers our Commonwealth's economy,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “We need recurring revenue so Pennsylvanians can get to work, students can get to school, and we can continue growing our economy.”

Scott Sauer, General Manager of SEPTA, added: “Reliable funding is crucial if we want to maintain current service levels and avoid fare increases or cuts.”

Autumn Fingerhood, a SEPTA rider who attended the meeting, shared: “As someone who relies on SEPTA every day, I know how important it is that our leaders invest in keeping these services running.”