PHILADELPHIA (October 25, 2023) – The current contract between SEPTA and the Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 234 expires at midnight on Tuesday, October 31. There has been progress in the contract negotiations, and there is an urgency to reach a new agreement that will avoid a disruption to the City Transit Division bus, trolley, Market-Frankford Line, and Broad Street Line services.
However, SEPTA also wants customers to prepare for the possibility of a work stoppage that could coincide with the start of the service day on Wednesday, November 1.
Some customers may be able to use Regional Rail if City Transit Division services are disrupted. All Regional Rail services would operate according to the current schedules. Express trains may make additional stops to accommodate the anticipated increase in ridership.
Suburban buses and trolleys, as well as the Norristown High Speed Line, would also operate in the event of a work stoppage, however, the routes for buses that travel into the City would change. Regular CCT Connect service would continue for registered ADA and Shared Ride customers.
SEPTA would also like to alert customers to changes they would encounter at Center City Regional Rail stations during evening travel hours, from 2:45 p.m. to 7 p.m. At Temple University, Jefferson, Suburban, William H. Gray III 30th Street, and Penn Medicine stations, riders would have to wait in line at the concourse level, to ensure safety and avoid overcrowding on platforms. LUCY Green and Gold Loop service would operate from William H. Gray III 30th Street Station to selected University City destinations.
Regional Rail customers must have funds loaded to the Travel Wallet on their SEPTA Key card or hold a valid pass. Customers without a prepaid fare would have to purchase a Quick Trip from a station kiosk or sales office.
SEPTA Ambassadors, including employees from all departments, would be dispatched to stations to provide assistance and information to customers.
Riders are urged to check septa.org for updates. Brochures with alternate service information are available at stations. SEPTA Customer Service would operate with extended hours if City Transit Division services are disrupted. Representatives can be reached at (215) 580-7800.
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