Next week, Philly bus routes frequently utilized by students will be reinstated following City Mayor Parker's announcement of early city finance releases.

In an effort to alleviate the impact of SEPTA service cuts on students, the city of Philadelphia has approved funding in its 2026 budget to reactivate bus lines specifically for school transportation. This move comes amidst a standoff in negotiations to approve transit funding in the state budget, which is now nearly two months past its deadline.

The restored routes, heavily utilised by students in the city, include the 84, 88, 452, 461, 462, 476, 478, 484, 31, and the service from Overbrook Park to 63rd and Market streets. Additionally, service will be augmented on routes that serve a significant number of students to reduce crowding, including the 14, 20, 23, 26, 47, 63, 67, 70, 82, T2 and T5.

Mayor Cherelle Parker expressed optimism that leaders can find a solution for mass transit funding in the Philadelphia region and across Pennsylvania. She has been in constant communication with Governor Shapiro and leaders from both parties to be part of a solution. Making sure students can get to school on time and safely is one of her top priorities.

The city teams moved quickly with SEPTA to find a way to restore transit services in the areas where students are most affected by the cutbacks. The money for restoring the routes will come from the existing $135 million SEPTA subsidy in the 2026 budget.

However, more service cuts could be on the way for SEPTA by Jan. 1, 2026, including a 9 p.m. curfew on all rail service and the elimination of five Regional Rail routes and the Broad-Ridge Spur. According to the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, these proposed cuts could result in approximately 275,000 additional vehicles on local roadways.

In light of potential SEPTA service cuts, the city is urging people to plan their commutes in advance and use other forms of public transit, such as the Philly PHLASH, PATCO, and NJ Transit. Philadelphia is also encouraging people to avoid driving in Center City during rush hour due to potential increased traffic on local roadways.

Starting Sept. 1, SEPTA will increase the base fare by 21.5% to $2.90. This hike, combined with potential service cuts, could lead to a substantial increase in the number of vehicles on local roadways.

Despite these challenges, the city remains committed to finding a long-term solution for mass transit funding to ensure that students and residents of Philadelphia have reliable and affordable transportation options.

Next week, Philly bus routes frequently utilized by students will be reinstated following City Mayor Parker's announcement of early city finance releases.