As tensions mount over the state of Pennsylvania's transportation infrastructure, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy has issued a stern call to action to Governor Josh Shapiro regarding SEPTA's troubled systems. Duffy's critique centers on what he describes as "gross mismanagement and neglect" of the transit agency, which provides bus and rail service across the southeastern part of the state. The safety and financial integrity of these systems, according to Duffy, are in jeopardy, as reported by the Department of Transportation.
In a recent communication to the governor, Duffy did not mince words, proclaiming, "The gross mismanagement and neglect of Pennsylvania's rail and bus systems is alarming." He then firmly asked Shapiro to "oversee the safety of riders and transit workers" and push for fiscal responsibility within SEPTA. This urgent missive follows a series of concerning incidents, including, according to the Department of Transportation, five thermal events—with onboard fires—on SEPTA’s commuter rail vehicles this year alone.
SEPTA's financial standing has not escaped scrutiny either, with the transit authority's $213 million debt earning a negative rating from Moody's Ratings. The financial instability of the agency further compounds the worrisome outlook for Pennsylvania's public transportation users and workers alike.
The Department has taken additional steps to intervene in SEPTA's operation, highlighting the severity of the situation. On October 1, the Federal Railroad Administration issued Emergency Order No. 34, detailing fourteen mandatory conditions for SEPTA to mitigate serious safety risks within its Silverliner IV commuter rail fleet. In a measure to enforce oversight, the FRA has also increased the number of rail safety inspectors at SEPTA facilities and, on SEPTA equipment. Earlier in the year, the Federal Transit Administration demanded details on SEPTA's storage protocols for its Proterra electric buses, following concerns that these "green" vehicles might pose their own safety and environmental hazards.
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