Overview
- The SEPTA board approved the annual service plan and budget on Thursday, May 28, 2026, enabling Phase 1 of the New Bus Network to start in August 2026 with full implementation rolling into late 2027.
- The overhaul cuts the total number of bus routes from 124 to 106 while expanding high-frequency service from about eight or nine routes today to 29 routes by fall 2027 to improve reliability on core corridors.
- The plan adds new and extended fixed routes, including Route 72 on Cheltenham Avenue and Route 76 along Columbus Boulevard, plus extensions such as Route 45 to the Navy Yard and Route 79 to University City.
- SEPTA will reduce or eliminate low-ridership and duplicative services on dozens of lines and pilot on-demand, ride-hailing style transit in areas where fixed routes are not sustainable.
- Riders and advocates warn of late-night and accessibility impacts—notably reduced Broad Street bus frequency after 9 p.m.—and critics question trade-offs given other SEPTA spending and the need for extensive rider outreach and on-street staff to guide customers through the changes.