Last week, the Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee, chaired by Sen. Wayne Langerholc (R-Cambria), held its second hearing on transportation funding, with a particular focus on the state’s public transit systems. (You can read our coverage of the first meeting here.)
During the hearing, leaders from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) and Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) testified about the challenges their systems face and the need for stable, predictable funding.
Langerholc outlined some of the critical issues facing transit, including safety concerns; decreased ridership; and outdated budgeting models, despite the state’s significant investment in public transportation. He stressed the need for more effective solutions to ensure transportation funding yields better outcomes and expressed optimism that the Legislature could find common ground.
Transit Leaders Outline Funding and Operational Challenges
SEPTA CEO Leslie Richards and PRT CEO Katharine Kelleman discussed the financial and operational challenges facing their systems. Both stressed the need for more local control over funding to improve long-term planning and service delivery.
Richards reported that SEPTA has a $240 million budget shortfall following the exhaustion of federal COVID-19 relief funds. She also highlighted a 47 percent drop in violent crime on SEPTA systems in 2024, the recovery of ridership to 76 percent of pre-pandemic levels, and efforts to modernize fare collection with new technology aimed at reducing fare evasion and improving safety. Richards emphasized the crucial role of transit in Pennsylvania’s success and called for statewide solutions.
Kelleman emphasized the economic and social impact of Pittsburgh Regional Transit, which employs 2,600 workers and serves 26 counties. She highlighted the importance of transit in providing access to essential services and supporting a car-free lifestyle, which could save individuals up to $10,000 a year. Kelleman also noted the impact of inflation on operating costs and funding gaps, warning that without consistent federal support, future projects like automation and hydrogen fuel technology could be delayed.
Workforce Impact and Economic Development
Public transit is not just important for Pennsylvania’s largest cities—it plays a key role in communities statewide, including smaller towns and rural areas. Reliable transit helps workers access jobs, and businesses depend on it to maintain a mobile workforce that supports economic growth.
The PA Chamber advocates for a forward-thinking, adaptable transportation funding model that includes support for public transit as essential to the state’s long-term economic competitiveness.
Looking Ahead
Chairman Langerholc will share his insights and discuss these issues further at tomorrow’s Government Affairs Roundtable, a FREE Investor Member event at the Hershey Lodge following the 40th PA Chamber Annual Dinner this evening.
You can register for both events here.