PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Uber and several nonprofits have joined forces to offer free transportation to seniors in Philadelphia in response to SEPTA service cuts.
The initiative, called the Uber Senior Ride Program, aims to help older adults reach essential destinations such as medical appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies, and senior centers.
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“SEPTA’s service cuts have a real impact on our most vulnerable residents, and this innovative partnership is a prime example of how the private sector and community organizations can connect to fill critical gaps to support our neighbors,” said state Rep. Morgan Cephas. “By providing a reliable transportation alternative, we’re helping ensure older Philadelphians can maintain their independence and dignity, while preserving their quality of life.”
Seniors with smartphones and the Uber app will receive promotional codes and ride vouchers. For those without access to a phone, nonprofit staff from ACHIEVEability and the Ogontz Avenue Revitalization Corporation (OARC) will act as transportation hubs, directly scheduling rides on their behalf.
The program is designed to prioritize essential travel needs and ensure seniors remain mobile despite reduced public transit options.
Phase 1 of SEPTA’s cuts began August 24 due to a $213 million deficit this fiscal year, the agency says. The cuts are reducing service by 20% across buses, trolleys, and subway lines, and the elimination of express services to the sports complex in South Philadelphia.
A 21.5% fare increase goes into effect Monday, and starting Tuesday, Regional Rail will see reduced service.
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Funding Talks and Legal Action
Progress is being made toward a state budget and transportation funding plan that could halt the cuts.
“We’re very close. Both sides now know what they need to do to close this out and get a deal done,” said Governor Josh Shapiro.
Top Democrats are entertaining the Republican’s push to use the Public Transit Trust Fund, but emphasize that if tapped, a deal must include recurring funding. Shapiro wants all counties to benefit.
A spokesperson for House Majority Leader Matt Bradford (D-Pennsylvania) released this statement to Action News as talks continue:
“We have stated many times that compromise is necessary in divided government. We can support a blend of revenues, but we have been clear that any long-term solution must include new, recurring, and reliable funding to fully fund transit in the commonwealth. The Senate Republicans have yet to agree to a proposal that does that. We cannot support any plan that exacerbates this crisis or jeopardizes the long-term safety and security of the transit system and its ridership.”
SEPTA’s general manager Scott Sauer said he is prepared for all possibilities.
“I’ll never turn away for short term if thats what the legislature decides to give us. I certainly can’t say no. Depending on the amount and longevity. it will determine what we can do with it and for how long,” he said.
Meanwhile, a lawsuit was filed against the transit agency on Wednesday due to the cuts. An emergency injunction hearing on the matter will be heard Friday at 9:30 a.m.
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