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City Cast Philly

Siani Colón

The Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems and Vision Zero Philadelphia released the 

“Vision Zero Philadelphia: Action Plan 2030”

 in late November, outlining the city’s goals to bring traffic deaths down to zero. An updated 

 was released in conjunction with the plan, demonstrating which corridors have the highest rates of traffic-related fatalities and injuries.

To create the plan the city worked with nearly 3,000 Philadelphians to learn their main areas of concerns and what types of solutions they prioritized. Here are some takeaways.

Traffic Deaths Remain Higher Than Other Cities

Philadelphia is outpacing its metropolitan counterparts across the country when it comes to traffic deaths. Philly has a rate of 8.48 traffic-related deaths per 100,000 residents. This surpasses the sprawling, car-centric city of Los Angeles at 8.11 and walkable New York City at 2.75.

Speeding was the top contributing factor in crash severity between 2020 and 2024. In a survey, Philadelphians said that speed was their number one traffic safety concern, followed by drivers running red lights and stop signs.

Philly Wants Traffic Safety Education To Start Young

Most Philadelphians surveyed said their highest priorities were educating high schoolers on safe-driving practices and young people on safe walking and biking. More than half wanted bike lanes separated from traffic.

Legislative Action Is Needed To Reach Safety Goals

Vision Zero’s Policy Subcommittee plans to spend the next five years meeting three policy goals:

Expand local government’s ability to set speed limits and work with state partners to set limits that make more sense for Philadelphia.

Make state roads eligible for parking-separated bike lanes.

Renew automated red-light enforcement programs and expand automated speed enforcement.

Change the Culture Through Education, Engagement, & Enforcement

The behaviors most associated with fatal crashes include aggressive driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, impaired driving, not yielding, distracted driving, and illegal parking. To change these behaviors, action items include expanded safety education in Philly schools, an expanded 

 to educate community members, and strategic deployment of highly visible enforcement.

Motorized vehicles can have the biggest impact on safety on our streets. To address this, the city will lead by example by adding small cars to its fleet with Vision Zero safety features. The city will also work on expanding the Indego bike share program and make transit improvements along priority corridors.

Read the city’s full Vision Zero 2030 report

 and learn the latest about the city’s bike lanes in 

The new plan comes after 120 people were killed in traffic-related deaths last year.

What’s in Philly’s Vision Zero Action Plan 2030?

Key Takeaways from Philly’s Vision Zero Action Plan 2030

What Philadelphians have been wondering. We break down why things in Philadelphia are the way they are and how they work.

Philly, Explained

, this has been a tumultuous year for SEPTA. The transit agency’s latest battle involves daily 

 on its Regional Rail lines as inspectors pull trains out of service due to potential safety hazards.

But SEPTA General Manager Scott Sauer offered us some good news: Come Friday, the inspection-related cancellations will end.

“ We are almost 90% complete as of Monday,” Sauer said of the mandated inspections 

. “ We fully expect to meet the deadline by close of business on Friday, the 14th. We have made really good progress, where it got off to a pretty slow start.”

In 2025, SEPTA experienced five fires on separate trains along its Regional Rail system on 

, Sept. 23, and Sept. 25. These accidents occurred along different rail lines, and originated in the trains’ electrical systems.

All trains involved in the fires are part of the Regional Rail’s 

. These cars have been in service since the 1970s. Although SEPTA 

, the trains weren’t completely retired and 

plans to acquire replacement double-decker rail cars were scrapped

. And so with no permanent funding solution for SEPTA, the rail network continued to use the old cars.

The National Transportation Safety Board, which investigates civil transportation accidents, 

 in October that blamed the Silverliner IV’s outdated designs and SEPTA’s maintenance practices for the safety risks and resulting fires. It recommended that the transit agency pull the cars out of service until the exact cause of the fires was determined, enact a plan to mitigate the risks, and seek funding to replace the rail cars as soon as possible.

 of the NTSB and ordered SEPTA to inspect the fleet and take remedial action by Oct. 31.

”Safety is the number one goal of the authority,” Sauer told City Cast Philly this week. “We don't want to get anyone hurt. We want everybody who works and rides on SEPTA to make sure that they go home the same way that we got them. So we won't put equipment on the line that isn't safe to run.”

After the initial accidents in the summer, SEPTA pulled some cars out of service for 

inspections and implemented new safety measures

. But under the new order, SEPTA began pulling more trains for emergency mechanical inspections. Yet as Oct. 31 approached, it was clear the agency would not make the deadline and asked for a 

The extension was given, but not without U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy 

 SEPTA’s safety practices and “gross mismanagement” of its finances. This 

prompted Governor Josh Shapiro to fire back

, pointing to Republicans in the state senate who refused to pass his budget with adequate funding for SEPTA.

Because of that continued budget impasse, SEPTA dipped into capital funds meant to address emergencies (like fires) in order to cover operational costs and continue service.

While Sauer expects to meet the new Nov. 14 deadline, he warned that there is still no dedicated funding source for SEPTA in the state budget, and 

And that means reductions in service or ending certain routes “are on the horizon if we don't resolve it with a permanent funding solution,” Sauer said.

Learn more about the insights gleaned from SEPTA’s inspections and the latest updates about SEPTA’s other challenges in today’s episode.

SEPTA General Manager Scott Sauer said service will improve once more cars come back to service, but warns the agency will “never be the same old SEPTA again.”

What’s the Status of SEPTA’s Train Inspections?

Inspection-Related Train Delays & Cancellations Will Ease Friday, SEPTA says

. After years of Band-Aid fixes to SEPTA’s funding troubles and empty promises from Harrisburg, the transit agency implemented its first wave of service reductions on Aug. 24.

Pennsylvania remains without a state budget, 

 across the state and meaning more transit cuts could be on the way. But Southeast Pennsylvanians can still advocate for their needs before these changes are set in stone. Here’s what to expect and what you can do about it.

On Aug. 24, SEPTA implemented its new schedule based on the financial reality that the agency did not receive state funds to help close its operating deficit, which exceeds $200 million. These first wave of 

 include the elimination of 32 bus routes and reduced service across the system. This has already resulted in skipped stops, no-show buses, and longer wait times.

Base fares for bus and metro lines are expected to increase to $2.90 on Sept. 1, while increased fares on the Regional Rail vary across zones.

Speaking of Regional Rail, modifications to its 

 go into effect on Sept. 2. However the suburban riders have already been met with 

significant delays and cancellations across lines

 due to equipment issues. With vehicles being pulled out of service for safety checks, service on the Regional Rail is affected from all sides.

On Jan. 1, 2026, SEPTA will undergo a second wave of cuts. More bus routes, including school shuttle buses, will be discontinued. Trolley routes 10 [T1] and 15 [G] will convert to buses. Service will be eliminated on the following lines: Chestnut Hill West, Cynwyd, Paoli/Thorndale, Trenton, and Wilmington/Newark.

There will also be no service on the Broad Street Line [B], Market-Frankford Line [L], Regional Rail, and trolleys after 9 p.m.

 near SEPTA’s rail lines and complete your ride by train.

If you want to go old school and catch a cab, you can call a taxi at 215-666-6666 or 215-333-3333. You can also request a taxi through 

, which partners with taxi companies in the city.

You can ride a bike to travel through the city. If you don’t have your own, use an 

 with the code “indecycle25” for a $1-per-month discount through September. If you’re new to biking around the city, 

Riders with disabilities can utilize SEPTA’s 

While it’s understandable to feel hopeless amid these changes impacting day-to-day life in the city, it isn’t over yet. At some point Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro will have to sign a budget that could include some or all of the money that SEPTA needs.

So if you’re frustrated about these service cuts, you can still take a stand.

 Whether it’s an email, phone call, or handwritten letter, reach out to your elected officials to express your support for SEPTA and how cuts impact you. 

Transit Forward Philly, a coalition of local organizations, is applying pressure in person. The group is 

rallying outside the offices of elected officials

 every Tuesday until Pennsylvania restores SEPTA funding.

 on Sept. 3 about how SEPTA cuts will impact riders beyond Philly. On Sept. 4, join a 

 at the Eagles home opener against the Dallas Cowboys.

SEPTA’s first wave of cuts is here. This is what’s to come. 

How To Navigate Around SEPTA’s Service Cuts and Fight Back

SEPTA Wasn’t Bluffing About Service Cuts. Now What?

As the June 30 deadline approaches for Pennsylvania’s legislature to pass the next state budget, SEPTA’s long forewarned “

” could become reality due to a $213 million budget deficit. This spiral would lead to 

, including the elimination of 50 bus routes and five Regional Rail lines, the closure of 66 stations, a 9 p.m. curfew, and a 21.5% fare increase.

Let’s rewind. Before SEPTA was even a thing, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Compact was signed in 1961, consolidating private rail lines in the region. SEPTA was created in 1964, but for decades SEPTA relied on 

unpredictable funding streams that primarily came from the state or federal governments

funded infrastructure projects throughout Pennsylvania

, including public transportation. While that helped SEPTA get through a backlog of maintenance upgrades, which had 

, the law expired after ten years and was not renewed.

Then came funds that SEPTA received during the pandemic. SEPTA 

 after revenue plummeted during the early pandemic and an 

. The aid staved off potential service cuts and layoffs, but now the money has depleted.

Last year, SEPTA had warned that without the funding it needed, fares would 

. That did not come to fruition as Governor Josh Shapiro 

rerouted $153 million in federal highway funding

 toward the agency. While that halted the hike, it was a temporary fix and SEPTA had to save money by scrapping its 50-cent discount for Key Card users.

Pennsylvania Republicans haven’t been sold on the idea of dedicated state aid for public transportation without a guaranteed funding source, like a 

increasing the portion of the sales-and-use tax

 for public transit. Under this proposal, SEPTA could receive $167,732,232 in additional funds.

State law prohibits counties from implementing local taxes to raise funds for public transit, limiting how much cities like Philly can step in to help fill the void. State Rep. Joe Hohenstein 

, but it did not get a vote in the legislature. So SEPTA is primarily reliant on the state for additional aid.

The lack of funding isn’t just a SEPTA issue. On the other side of the state, 

Pittsburgh Regional Transit is also at risk of severe cuts

 to its transit system due to the same issues.

Pennsylvania isn’t the only state facing transit funding issues. Illinois recently passed its state budget and 

didn’t give the Chicago Transit Authority additional funding

, which riders fear could foreshadow what happens here.

 to send a message to Shapiro and your state senator and representative.

The activist group Save SEPTA also has a handy tool

 to contact elected officials to urge them to fund SEPTA.

 for scripts, flyers, and tips on how to communicate with legislators.

Fishtown Neighbors Association, East Kensington Neighbors Association, and the Olde Richmond Civic Association are 

hosting a day of action at the Frankford Brewing Company

 on June 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees can phone bank and write letters to elected officials.

With less than a month for Pennsylvania to finalize a state budget, Philly’s transportation system hangs in the balance.

Why Is SEPTA in a Budget Crisis?

What’s the Deal With SEPTA’s Budget?

In December, Mayor Cherelle Parker signed a bill 

prohibiting vehicles from standing in a bike lane

, even momentarily. We recently spoke with the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia about 

the hope that it will improve bike safety in Philly

While the effects of this law remain to be seen, here are some tips for biking safely through Philly, from how to prepare to what to do in case of a crash.

The right equipment can vastly improve your safety during a ride. When 

, determine if the helmet complies with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Make sure it fits properly, and that it matches your planned activities.

 before heading out. Ensure your tires are properly inflated, your brakes are working properly, and your chains are tight, clean, lubricated, and rust-free.

Wear bright-colored clothing to ensure drivers can see you, install and use rearview mirrors, protect yourself from the sun, and 

. While you can’t always avoid certain lanes or areas, the City Cast Philly team spoke to a few experts who identified 

some dangerous intersections and hotspots

. Ride in a straight, single-file line in the same direction as traffic, obey signs and signals, and look in all directions before entering or crossing a street to avoid crashes.

Despite all of your preparations, accidents can and do happen. What should you do if you’re involved in a hit-and-run? We checked with 

, a father-son legal team in Philly who focus on bicycle safety. Their recommendations are to take a photo of the car's license plate and file a police report. Although a lot of people may want to record videos, this can lead to escalation and a tense situation.

While the effects of the new law prohibiting vehicles from stopping in a bike lane remain to be seen, here are some tips for biking safely through Philly, from how to prepare and what to do in case of an accident. 

Tips for Biking Safely in Philadelphia

How to Bike Safely Through Philly

Tips and tricks for living your best Philadelphia life, by locals, for locals.

Philly Life Hacks

In September 2024, the average daily ridership across all modes of the Southern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, otherwise known as SEPTA, was 

. SEPTA is a vital part of life for many Philadelphians, but it can be confusing and overwhelming for newbies. Here’s a quick guide to the basics of SEPTA and what you need to know if you’re new to the transportation system.

Trains run through Philadelphia and various suburbs in the surrounding area, with stations in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. It also stops in parts of Delaware and New Jersey. Center City has three stations: Jefferson Station, Suburban Station, and William H. Gray III 30th Street Station.

The two subway lines are the Market-Frankford Line (MFL) and Broad Street Line (BSL). The MFL is often called the "blue line" or "the el"; it travels an east-west path. The BSL, also called the "orange line," runs beneath Broad Street from the top of North Philly to the stadium complex in South Philly.

Eight old-style trolleys, or street cars, operate at both the surface and underground levels. Although partially replaced by bus routes, SEPTA still has the 

 taking folks to Center City and the suburbs.

One hundred bus routes carry Philadelphians throughout the city and its surrounding areas. Some bus lines are designated by numbers while others are marked by letters. There are also Night Owl routes that run 24 hours.

This train line connects Philadelphia to parts of Delaware and Montgomery counties. You can also use this line to access the MFL subway, trolley lines, and the Manayunk/Norristown Regional Rail line.

, which acts as a sort of debit card that you can load money onto and reuse. Buses, trolleys, and subway lines also accept contactless payment methods with a credit/debit card or phone. If you’re only in the city for a day and planning to bounce around, SEPTA offers a 

 for $13 which covers 10 rides on buses, trolleys, subways, and trains.

 has scheduling information, fare options, and an alert for 

. You can also access your SEPTA Key account and SEPTA Key Tix, which allows you to pay for up to five other people on your account.

Close to 800,000 people use SEPTA daily, taking them throughout the city and beyond. From subways to trains to trolleys, there are a variety of ways to get from point A to point B – but the system can be overwhelming. Here’s a basic guide to understanding SEPTA. 

Your Guide to SEPTA in Philly

Newbies' Guide to SEPTA 

Last week, the Biden Administration announced it would put two new hydrogen energy hubs in Pennsylvania. Locally, the 

 will get up to $750 million to build up this new energy source for Southeastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.

 was on the City Cast Pittsburgh podcast explaining 

what you need to know about this fuel and the federal money behind it

. Here’s what we learned from that conversation:

Hydrogen is a clean alternative to natural gas.

 Hydrogen is the most abundant chemical element, but it’s very scarce as a gas. More than 95% of hydrogen currently made in the U.S. is produced in a way that results in significant emissions.

But there's a better way. Clean hydrogen can be 

 like wind, solar, geothermal, and nuclear. Hydrogen hubs would be regional clusters of facilities that would make the hydrogen, store it, and regulate its distribution.

State lawmakers are excited about bringing billions of dollars to Pennsylvania — and with that money, 

, political clout, and short- and long-term jobs for locals. The Biden Administration sees these hubs as a way to reach global climate goals.

Some environmental advocates worry that without the right state regulations in place, these hydrogen hubs won’t be as environmentally friendly as they seem.

➕ For more on hydrogen hubs and what comes next, check out 

, and learn about the many colors in the hydrogen rainbow via 

her conversation with City Cast Pittsburgh

🎧 How clean is it, really?

The federal government is allocating up to $7 billion to build six to 10 hydrogen hubs across the country — and Pennsylvania lawmakers want in.

transportation

Key Takeaways from Philly’s Vision Zero Action Plan 2030

Inspection-Related Train Delays & Cancellations Will Ease Friday, SEPTA says

SEPTA Wasn’t Bluffing About Service Cuts. Now What?

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Key Takeaways from Philly’s Vision Zero Action Plan 2030

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SEPTA Wasn’t Bluffing About Service Cuts. Now What?

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