SEPTA to End Free Parking at Regional Train Stations
Philadelphia, PA
– The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) has announced plans to end free parking at all of its regional train stations, effective March 1, 2023. The decision was made after a comprehensive study by SEPTA, which found that free parking was leading to overcrowding and traffic congestion at stations. The study also revealed that a significant number of vehicles parked at stations were not used for train travel, further exacerbating the problem. SEPTA officials believe that the new parking fees will help to alleviate these issues by discouraging non-train commuters from using station parking spaces. The fees will also provide SEPTA with additional revenue that can be used to improve train service and expand public transportation options. The parking fees will vary by station, depending on the demand for parking. At high-demand stations, such as Center City and University City, the daily parking rate will be $12. At low-demand stations, the daily rate will be $5. Monthly parking passes will also be available for purchase. The cost of a monthly pass will be equal to the daily rate multiplied by 30. SEPTA is encouraging riders to consider alternative transportation options, such as walking, biking, or taking a bus to the train station. The agency is also working to expand its park-and-ride facilities, which provide free parking at locations near train stations. The decision to end free parking has been met with mixed reactions. Some riders support the move, saying that it will make it easier to find parking at stations. Others oppose the fees, arguing that they will make it more expensive to commute by train. SEPTA officials are confident that the new parking fees will ultimately benefit riders by improving train service and reducing traffic congestion around stations. The agency is committed to providing affordable and convenient public transportation options for the region.
SEPTA Ends Free Parking at Regional Train Stations
Philadelphia, PA – SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) has announced that it will end free parking at its regional train stations. The decision, which will take effect on August 1, 2023, was made to address the agency’s ongoing budget challenges and to encourage riders to use alternative modes of transportation to the stations.
Reasoning for the Change
SEPTA cited several reasons for the decision to eliminate free parking: *
Budgetary Constraints:
The agency faces a significant budget deficit and is seeking ways to reduce costs. Parking revenue is expected to generate approximately $18 million per year, which will help offset rising operating expenses. *
Low Parking Utilization:
Data shows that many parking spaces at regional train stations remain unused during peak travel times. This suggests that riders are using other forms of transportation, such as buses or carpools, to access the stations. *
Encouragement of Alternative Transportation:
SEPTA believes that eliminating free parking will incentivize riders to explore other options, such as walking, biking, or taking public transportation, to get to the stations. This will reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality.
Details of the New Parking Fees
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Daily Parking Fee:
A daily parking fee of $5 will be charged at all regional train stations. *
Monthly Parking Permit:
Monthly parking permits will be available at a cost of $50. *
Valid SEPTA Transit Pass:
SEPTA Key holders with active transit passes will continue to receive a $5 daily parking credit. *
Exemptions:
Employees of SEPTA and certain disability permit holders will be exempt from parking fees.
Impact on Riders
SEPTA acknowledges that the elimination of free parking may have an impact on riders. However, the agency believes that the benefits of reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality will outweigh the inconvenience for drivers. Riders are encouraged to explore alternative modes of transportation or to consider purchasing monthly parking permits to minimize the impact on their travel expenses.
Additional Information
For more information about the new parking policy, riders can visit SEPTA’s website or contact the agency’s Customer Service Center at 215-580-7800.