PITTSBURGH, PA – September 11, 2025 − Today, PRT requested permission from Governor Shapiro and PENNDOT to use infrastructure dollars for operating expenses. This follows the Governor’s approval of SEPTA’s request for temporary operational support using state funds that are typically reserved for capital expenses that fund the purchase and maintenance of transit vehicles and infrastructure that provides for safety and efficiency on Monday.
This move will avert a planned 35% service reduction and 9% fare hikes which would have taken place in early 2026.
Democratic Leader Jay Costa offers the following statement:
“Once again, the inaction of the Senate Republicans has forced the second largest transit system in Pennsylvania to reallocate funding from their capital fund to their operating fund. I am glad that Governor Shapiro, PennDOT, and PRT are taking the steps to ensure transit riders maintain reliable, affordable service. Still, I am extremely frustrated that Senate Republicans refuse to do their part to deliver a sustainable source of funding for our essential public transit systems. Transit powers our regional economy by getting people to work, kids to school, seniors to doctors’ appointment, and tourists to our attractions. We need the state to do its part to provide funding to keep these services available. While PRT riders can breathe a sigh of relief, Senate Democrats remain on the frontlines of the fight for a long-term revenue stream for our buses, trains, roads, and bridges.”
Learn more about the PA Senate Democrats’ commitment to every Pennsylvanian here.
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