Just one day before Philly kids head back to school, SEPTA is preparing to pull the plug on dozens of vital bus routes. For families who rely on public transportation, service cuts will put their plans in jeopardy.
Facing a $213 million budget shortfall and no guaranteed state funding, SEPTA is warning of massive service cuts set to begin on August 24, 2025– right before the school year starts.
For thousands of students across the city, getting to class on time might suddenly become a whole lot harder, longer, and more stressful.
Here’s what you need to know.
⏰ When does school start in Philadelphia this year?
The School District of Philadelphia kicks off the new year on Monday, August 25, 2025. But thousands of students may face unexpected challenges getting there because SEPTA is planning major service cuts just the day before.
🧐 Why is SEPTA cutting 32 bus routes?
SEPTA says it’s grappling with a $213 million structural deficit and can’t sustain current service levels without new funding. If no financial solution is found by August 24, SEPTA will be forced to slash 32 bus routes, shorten 16 others, and cut service across 88 additional lines, including metro and Regional Rail.
This comes as Gov. Josh Shapiro’s state budget proposal includes a $168 million increase for public transit. However, if SEPTA doesn’t get its share, the service cuts are a go.
‼️ How will these service cuts affect students?
Indeed, many Philadelphia students rely on SEPTA to commute to and from school. With fewer buses, longer walks, and crowded transfers, students may need to leave home much earlier to get to class on time.
“In the best case scenario, they’ll have to make a couple more transfers and depart a little bit earlier,” SEPTA Deputy Chief Planning Officer Colin Foley told KYW Newsradio. “In the worst case, they may have longer walks.”
👀 What other service cuts are chopping block?
By July 2026, SEPTA’s approved budget outlines a 45% reduction in service.
Here’s what else could be coming:
- Elimination of 50 total bus routes
- Closure of multiple bus depots
- End of all trolley services (converted to buses)
- Regional Rail service ending nightly at 9 p.m.
- Special express services (like sports trains) discontinued
- Fare hike from $2.50 to $2.90 this fall
- A second fare increase of 21.5% in September
💡 What can families do now?
Now’s the time to rethink your child’s route to school and explore backup plans. Check for carpool options, SEPTA bus route maps, or talk with your school about transportation support.
Additionally, you can also contact local representatives to urge funding support for SEPTA.
Because come August 25, the bell rings whether the bus shows up or not.
To see the list of proposed service cuts and routes, visit here.