By Kim Y. Stanley
- The SEPTA Metro service cuts that took effect on August 24, 2025, will significantly affect riders across the region. While most attention has focused on fixed-route passengers, less notice has been given to how these changes will affect SEPTA Access riders, formerly known as CCT, who rely on paratransit for transportation.
- SEPTA Access reservations are tied to the fixed-route system. If a destination is no longer served by a bus, trolley, or rail line, Access rides cannot be scheduled to that location. Reservations are only allowed for addresses within three-quarters of a mile of an active route. With 32 bus routes already cut in August and another 18 planned for elimination in January 2026, a total of 50 routes could disappear if SEPTA does not receive the $213 million in state funding needed to close its budget gap.
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- Riders with ADA eligibility may travel along any active fixed route in Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery, Chester, and Bucks Counties. Fares can be paid by loading funds or a Zone 2 Trail Pass onto a SEPTA Access Key Card, or by paying the exact cash fare.
- Senior Ride Program (SRP)
- To qualify for SRP, riders must be 65 or older. Fares may be paid in exact cash or with funds loaded onto a SEPTA Key Card. Service is limited to Philadelphia and within three miles beyond the city limits. Trail Passes are not accepted for payment. Riders who qualify for both ADA and SRP must indicate which program a trip falls under when booking. Eligibility questions can be answered by calling SEPTA Access Customer Service at 215-580-7145 and choosing option five.
- Fare Increase
- Beginning September 1, 2025, fares for ADA and SRP riders will increase from $4.25 to $5.75 per one-way trip. The former 75-cent county surcharge will be eliminated and replaced with a flat rate of $5.75, regardless of distance traveled.
- More Restrictions Ahead
- In January 2026, service reductions will expand. SEPTA Metro, SEPTA Access, and all Regional Rail lines will stop operating at 9 p.m. In addition, five Regional Rail lines will be eliminated. Riders attending events that end after 9 p.m. will need to find other transportation options.
- Higher Demand and Longer Wait Times
- A Customer Service Representative that I spoke to yesterday explained that demand for SEPTA Access will likely increase as more routes are cut. Riders may not receive their preferred pickup times and should expect longer travel and wait times due to heavier demand and added traffic congestion.
- If you have any questions, call Customer Service on 215-580-7145, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. or activate the below link:
Funding Crisis – Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority