SEPTA is planning to implement the New Bus Network this year, with Phase 1 beginning in August, according to a recent announcement. The initiative, formerly known as Bus Revolution, launched in 2021 with the goal to comprehensively redesign the entire bus network, but had to be postponed a couple of times.

This new network was approved by the SEPTA Board in May 2024, following a large community engagement effort, which included 150 in-person events, 40 virtual meetings and 10 public hearings. About 20,000 residents provided feedback for the project over a 3-year period.

The plan will be implemented as part of SEPTA’s Annual Service Plan process, which will include additional hearings on April 15 before a Board vote in May.

SEPTA has made some adjustments to the plan over the last two years, after receiving community feedback.

Under the revised plan, the number of routes offering frequent service – every 15 minutes or better seven days a week – would increase from eight to 29. To accommodate these improvements, some bus routes or patterns that have low usage would be eliminated.

During the Phase 1 implementation, frequency will be improved on Routes 46, 49, and 64, but low-ridership patterns on Routes 44 and 52 will be eliminated – limited service to Gladwyne will be discontinued on both routes.

Also, Route 64 will be re-aligned in South Philadelphia to stay on Grays Ferry. All trips will operate to Parkside Loop instead of some trips terminating at 49th and Woodland.

The South Philly Route 79 will be extended to University City via Grays Ferry.

Phase 2 is set to begin in February 2027 and Phase 3 in June 2027, with some additional changes in August 2027.

For more information, visit: https://wwww.septa.org/initiatives/bus.