Public transportation is a lifeline for residents across every county in Pennsylvania, serving as a vital asset comparable to owning a vehicle. Now, more than ever, we have a historic opportunity to enhance our communities, stimulate economic growth, and create lasting opportunities for future generations through strategic investments in public transit. Such initiatives are essential to provide reliable services that address both our current and future needs.
However, Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) is facing a significant challenge. Due to a looming $100 million budget deficit, PRT has announced plans to reduce service by 35% and increase fares by over 9% starting July 1, 2025. Despite efforts to improve efficiency, including closing the Harmar garage, cutting service by 40%, and implementing a four-year wage freeze, PRT has reached a point where further cuts are unsustainable without impacting service quality.
To prevent these drastic measures, it is crucial for the State to approve a budget that will allow PRT to maintain its current service levels while implementing only modest fare increases. This financial support will enable the implementation of PRT’s Bus Line Redesign, accommodate additional service needs for the 2026 NFL Draft, and ensure reliable transit access for the next decade.
Get Involved: Your Voice Matters
Community involvement is essential in this critical period. A public hearing is scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. This event is an opportunity for community members to provide testimony and share their perspectives.
If attending in person isn’t possible, there are several other ways to make your voice heard:
- Write to PRT:
Pittsburgh Regional Transit
ATTN: Funding Crisis
345 Sixth Ave, 3rd floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15222 - Complete a Survey:
Visit PRT’s Downtown Service Center at 623 Smithfield St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, to fill out a paper survey. Surveys are also available for download in English and Spanish and can be mailed or dropped off at the Service Center. - Online Survey:
Participate by completing the online survey at PRT’s website. - Public Comment Hotline:
Call 412-566-5525 to leave your comments. Be sure to include your name, zip code, and message.
We also encourage you to please continue to contact your legislator! Visit https://www.palegis.us/find-my-legislator to find your legislator and their contact information.
Your participation is vital in shaping the future of public transportation in Pittsburgh and ensuring that it remains a robust and reliable service for all. Join us in advocating for a sustainable transit system that meets the needs of our community today and for generations to come.