Supporters of SEPTA's fare-free pilots gathered on the north apron of Philadelphia City Hall on Friday to press the city to keep two programs that let thousands ride SEPTA for free. The crowd, organized by Transit Forward Philly and joined by union representatives and local elected officials, warned the initiatives could be at risk when the mayor releases a new spending plan next week.
The city’s Zero Fare pilot has distributed more than 24,000 subsidized SEPTA Key cards to residents, according to City of Philadelphia. Key Advantage provides free passes to municipal workers, and advocates say both programs help knock down barriers to jobs, medical care and shopping as household costs keep climbing.
Voices at City Hall
Speakers warned that making the programs optional again would hit the people who rely on them most. “The SEPTA Key program is a huge asset to our members who are struggling,” AFSCME representative Greg Boulware told the crowd, while Zero Fare user Laverne Boateng said the card helps her get to doctor’s appointments and into Center City for errands. As reported by WHYY, organizers also flagged the price tag advocates expect to be debated in the budget: roughly $20 million for Zero Fare and about $9 million for Key Advantage, and said tens of thousands of riders depend on the benefits.
How the Programs Started
Zero Fare began as a two‑year pilot intended to serve 25,000 or more Philadelphians and is administered by the city in partnership with SEPTA. The Key Advantage employer program, which allows large organizations to offer all‑access SEPTA passes to employees, was rolled out with institutional partners, including the city, per SEPTA.
Budget Showdown
Mayor Cherelle Parker is scheduled to unveil her spending plan next week, and advocates say the programs will be a key test of whether City Hall protects transit access for low‑income residents and workers. As reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer, Councilmember Nicolas O’Rourke has proposed a charter amendment to create a Transit Access Fund that backers say would make Zero Fare funding more durable.
What Advocates Will Do Next
Organizers said they plan to keep up pressure through public events, council outreach and coalition lobbying while budget talks move forward. Transit Forward Philadelphia, which organized Friday’s action, has posted event and campaign details on its website for supporters tracking the fight.
