PHILADELPHIA, PA — 5th Square today applauded the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) for advancing into real world testing of their long promised solar powered, real time bus arrival screens at stops across Philadelphia.
Alex Milone, Transit Committee Co-Chair at 5th Square Advocacy, says, “This is the kind of rider first investment our region needs. Real time bus information is a basic feature that should be available to everyone waiting for the bus, not just to those with smartphones.”
“Riders deserve better transit information and Philly artists have recently been proving the value and demand for that real time information at bus stops. These real time information screens mark an important shift towards making SEPTA a more accessible, rider focused transit system.”
Milone added that this milestone reflects sustained advocacy from transit riders and organizers. “For some time now, 5th Square members have been showing up to SEPTA Board meetings, organizing riders, and pushing for real time information at bus stops. It’s very encouraging to see that advocacy work translating into real world action by SEPTA.”
“Knowing when your bus is coming reduces stress, allows riders to better plan their trips, and makes transit more usable for everyone,” Milone added. “We’re encouraged to see SEPTA putting this technology into action and elevating itself to being one of the best public transport systems in the US.”
Transit Forward Philadelphia Coalition Manager, Stephen Bronskill shared, “Philly transit riders deserve a reliable way to get to work, school, or wherever they are going. Real time arrival signs make SEPTA more accessible, welcome new riders onto the system, and give riders peace of mind that their bus is on the way. Advocates should be proud that signs will be installed after months of calling on SEPTA to take action at board meetings and public forums.”
