by KYW's Mike Dunn
Some SEPTA riders are not happy that the transit agency is going ahead with its plan to eliminate transfers, despite the big bailout of SEPTA by Harrisburg.
SEPTA had back in June voted to eliminate the transfers effective August 1st.
With that change looming, angry riders packed the SEPTA boardroom, urging members to reconsider.
Among them, Tony DeSantis of the Delaware Valley Association of Rail Passengers:
“The elimination of transfers are further proof that SEPTA management seems to operate the system not for the convenience of its customers, but for the convenience of its managers.”
SEPTA Board Chairman Pat Deon says the elimination of the transfers was a condition imposed by the state to get new funding:
“Harrisburg gave us a pretty clear mandate — streamline your fare collection, and we’re going to give you the money.”
Deon says they’re working with the school district to help out students who now use transfers.
The mayor’s consumer advocate, Lance Haver, told SEPTA board members that more study is needed:
“Hold another round of hearings. Give us an opportunity to be heard. Give us an opportunity to bring our technical experts in to show you why this is wrong.”
Without the 60-cent transfers, riders who switch buses will have to pay a double fare.
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