WILLIAMS TESTIFIES BEFORE SEPTA: HELP IS ON THE WAY

 HARRISBURG, OCT. 21 – During a public hearing hosted by SEPTA in Norristown today, state Sen. Connie Williams asked officials to delay rolling out proposed rate hikes and cuts in weekend services.

 During her testimony, Williams noted that funding for public transit was a priority for her and is a high-priority issue with the General Assembly.

 “Since SEPTA made the announcement about the proposed changes, I have heard from numerous constituents,” Williams said. “One summed up the situation very well when she said that she normally doesn’t call to complain about anything, but in this case, if the fares increase and weekend service is cut further, she will not be able to hold her job.”

 Williams also pointed out that the proposed route cuts would not only sever ties between many communities in the 17^th District and the city, but also to the Philadelphia Airport terminal and several malls.

 “The loss of weekend service is going to be detrimental to the transportation needs of the region and also to the local economy,” Williams said. “Not only will employees not be able to get to work, but also the shoppers who keep the stores in business will not be able to get there. The fare increase and service reductions will adversely affect the economy.”

 In Harrisburg, Williams said, elected officials recognize that SEPTA’s situation is not unique, but is indicative of a larger mass transit funding issue.

 “It is imperative that the state step forward and address the issue and I fully expect it will be addressed before the 2003-04 Legislative Session year ends on November 30^th,” Williams said.

 “One of the main problems is that the current system of transportation funding in Pennsylvania does not include a predictable funding source for mass transit. With a governor who understand the importance of mass transit and a secretary of transportation who comes from a transit background I am optimistic this will change.”

 Williams co-sponsored legislation (S.B. 1162) that would create an overall transportation package with a dedicated funding source. While some suggested using the gas tax to fund mass transit, this tax is constitutionally restricted for road and bridge projects. Williams noted that should a debate begin on the gas tax, it most likely would include the issue of dedicated funding for mass transit.

 “It is going to take the cooperation of the transit agencies and the General Assembly and the Administration to devise a permanent solution,” Williams said. “I don’t believe this permanent solution should involve the state taking over the management of these agencies.”