The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) Regional Rail may cut service to four stations in New Castle County and increase fares by 21.5% on remaining services, according to SEPTA’s latest funding scenario, in August this year. The service could be fully terminated in January 2026 if SEPTA does not receive the necessary funding from the Pennsylvania Legislature to address a $213 million budget deficit.
“The SEPTA Wilmington-Newark line is a critically important commuter link connecting communities in New Castle County with Philadelphia and the surrounding region. Employers on both sides of the state line understand its significance, as it offers a cost-effective, reliable transportation option that helps reduce vehicle trips and ease traffic congestion throughout our shared economic corridor,” Emily Justison, director of communications and public relations for the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce, said.
Delaware directly funds all SEPTA Regional Rail services from south of Marcus Hook, PA to Newark, DE. In FY ’24, Delaware spent approximately $12 million in operating, access, and capital expenses to both SEPTA and Amtrak for the Delaware segment of the SEPTA Wilmington/Newark Line. Delaware was able to offset this amount by close to $3 million from fare credits generated by the approximately 1,300 Delawareans that use commuter rail daily for employment, medical, education and entertainment purposes.
“The New Castle County Chamber of Commerce recognizes this line’s vital role in our regional transportation network. We are actively engaged in ongoing discussions with agencies, officials, and businesses in Delaware and stand ready to work collaboratively with our partners across Greater Philadelphia to ensure its continued operation and success,” Justison said.
SEPTA has petitioned the Pennsylvania Legislature for the needed additional funding with the support of Pennsylvania’s Governor Shapiro. So far, the Pennsylvania Senate has not passed a funding solution. SEPTA has scheduled public hearings for May 19 & 20 and we are asking for New Castle County Chamber of Commerce members to support SEPTA’s funding request by providing comments to the following dedicated website, www.septa.org/news/public-hearings/. Written comments will be accepted through May 28, 2025. The SEPTA Board will meet in late June 2025 to discuss and pass a new budget which will be based on funding levels at that time.
In 2016, big events are projected to bring millions of visitors into our region who will also depend on the highest levels of mass transit services. Philadelphia will be the site for FIFA World Cup matches, the Semi quincentennial Anniversary of the United States of America, MLB All-Star Game and PGA Championship.
