SEPTA Enforcement Begins, $43M Bus Grant Secured, PHA Expands Housing Portfolio

Philadelphia’s transportation and housing landscape saw several significant updates this week, with new enforcement measures, federal transit funding, and a major affordable housing acquisition leading the headlines.

SEPTA Begins Automated Trolley Enforcement

Starting today, April 1, SEPTA is issuing $51 tickets to drivers who block trolley tracks and stops. After a monthlong warning period, more than 30 trolley cars are now equipped with AI-powered cameras designed to catch parking violations in real time.

Transit officials say blocked tracks slow service and create safety hazards, particularly in dense corridors like University City. The enforcement rollout is part of a broader push to improve reliability as SEPTA continues to navigate long-term funding challenges.

$43M Federal Grant for New Hybrid Buses

In a boost for the region’s transit fleet, SEPTA secured $43 million in competitive federal funding to purchase new diesel-electric hybrid buses. The award comes through the Federal Transit Administration’s Low and No Emission and Bus Facilities programs.

The funding will support the replacement of aging vehicles with more efficient models, helping modernize service while lowering emissions. Transit leaders say the investment strengthens SEPTA’s capital program at a time when infrastructure upgrades remain a top priority.

PHA Buys 200-Unit Olde Kensington Development

The Philadelphia Housing Authority has purchased the recently completed Avenue V development in Olde Kensington for $49.1 million. The 200-unit property was delivered earlier this year and adds to PHA’s expanding portfolio of multifamily housing.

The acquisition reflects a strategy of securing newer buildings to preserve and expand affordable housing options amid rising rents and limited inventory across the city.

Proposed Delivery Tax to Fund Pothole Repairs

Meanwhile, Mayor Cherelle Parker’s proposed budget includes a new 25-cent tax on retail deliveries to generate an estimated $15 million annually for street repairs. The revenue would fund expanded pothole response teams and equipment upgrades.

Essential goods such as food, medicine, and baby products would be exempt. The proposal is expected to face debate in City Council as part of broader budget negotiations this spring.

Sources