After years of planning, revisions and delays, SEPTA’s sweeping New Bus Network is officially rolling out this weekend.
The first phase begins Sunday, August 23, marking the first major redesign of SEPTA’s bus network in roughly 60 years. The overhaul is designed to make the system easier to navigate, improve reliability, increase frequency, and better align service with how Philadelphians travel today.
SEPTA’s New Bus Network is finally here
SEPTA developed the plan after more than three years of public engagement, including 150 in-person events, 40 virtual meetings, and 10 public hearings. Overall, SEPTA generated feedback rom more than 20,000 residents.
Phase I will primarily affect riders in South Philadelphia, Kensington, Juniata, the Cheltenham and Lancaster Avenue corridors, and Roxborough.
What’s changing on Sunday?
Two new routes will debut. Route 72 will connect Frankford Transit Center and Cedarbrook Plaza along Cheltenham Avenue. Route 76 will create a new connection between North and South Philadelphia.
Additionally, several existing routes will also be extended. Route 45 will provide seven-day service to the Navy Yard, connecting it with Center City. Route 60 will expand service to Wissahickon Transit Center, while Route 79 will extend between South and West Philadelphia.
Other routes will receive increased frequency or modified alignments, including Routes 6, 46, 47, 49, 57, 64 and 105.
At the same time, seven routes —35, 47M, 62, 78, 80, 89, and 106— are being eliminated because SEPTA identified them as low-ridership or duplicative services. Reduced service will also affect Routes 4, 32, 39, 54, and 73.
More changes are coming
The New Bus Network was originally approved by SEPTA’s board in 2024 but was delayed amid uncertainty surrounding the agency’s funding and financial future. SEPTA subsequently made adjustments to the plan before moving forward with the redesigned network.
Most Phase I changes take effect Sunday, but Route 106 will be eliminated Monday, August 24, when Route 105 is extended to Paoli Hospital.
The overhaul won’t end this weekend.
Phase II is scheduled for February 2027.
Phase III is scheduled for June 2027, bringing additional changes to SEPTA bus service.
For riders, it’s a good time to check your route before Sunday. For more information on the New Bus Network, visit SEPTA’s official website.
