U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy has raised concerns about the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) in a letter to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. The transit agency is reportedly facing significant safety and financial challenges that pose risks to public safety.
"The gross mismanagement and neglect of Pennsylvania's rail and bus systems is alarming," said Duffy. He urged Governor Shapiro to take charge of ensuring the safety of both riders and transit workers, emphasizing the need for SEPTA to address its financial issues.
The Department of Transportation highlighted several incidents involving SEPTA, including five thermal events on commuter rail vehicles this year, with two occurring last month. These incidents underscore the agency's struggles with oversight and a growing $213 million debt, which has led to a negative rating from Moody’s Ratings.
In response, federal agencies have taken action against SEPTA. On October 1, 2025, the Federal Railroad Administration issued Emergency Order No. 34, requiring SEPTA to meet fourteen conditions to mitigate safety risks associated with its Silverliner IV commuter rail fleet. Additionally, more rail safety inspectors have been deployed at SEPTA facilities.
Furthermore, on August 6, 2025, the Federal Transit Administration requested information about SEPTA’s storage protocols for fire-prone Proterra electric buses to prevent potential safety and environmental issues.
The U.S. Department of Transportation has been active in other areas as well. Recently, it announced nearly $20 million in grants through its Small Shipyard Grant Program aimed at modernizing small shipyards across the country (https://www.maritime.dot.gov/newsroom/maritime-administration-awards-nearly-20-million-funding-strengthen-us-shipyard-economic). In recognition of the ADA's anniversary, it also revealed winners of a $5 million Inclusive Design Challenge focused on enhancing mobility options for individuals with disabilities (https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/anniversary-ada-usdot-announces-winners-its-first-ever-inclusive-design-challenge).
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