PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Philadelphia businesses likely won’t feel a major impact from SEPTA service cuts until the coming weeks. This week is considered a holiday week, and ridership is expected to increase after Labor Day.

A 21.5% fare increase goes into effect Monday, and starting Tuesday, Regional Rail will see reduced service.

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While businesses may not see the full impact just four days into SEPTA’s first phase of cuts, many are bracing for what’s next.

Wendell Young, president of UFCW Local 1776, said the union – which represents 30,000 members, including 12,000 in the Philadelphia region – is already in talks with employers. Many of those members, including grocery store employees, were considered essential during the pandemic.

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There are growing concerns for SEPTA Regional Rail riders, with cuts to begin next week.

“We started talking before this week with employers about their need to be flexible,” Young said. “Those members most seriously challenged will have to figure out if something can be done to adjust work schedules or work assignments. The exact impact will take a few weeks.”

Chellie Cameron, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, said she’s concerned about the long-term implications.

“I’m concerned about what this means for our future growth potential in Philadelphia,” she said.

The chamber said it is constantly working to attract businesses – both large and small – to the region, competing with other cities. SEPTA’s cuts and fare increases could affect that effort.

“They care about the traffic and access to transit, and so SEPTA being in a good operating position is really important for our future growth,” Cameron said. “Our policy agenda for 2025 is making sure that SEPTA has a short-term and long-term funding solution.”

The chamber also noted that SEPTA connects Philadelphia to the greater region, and 44% of Philadelphians who work commute outside the city.

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