PRT Board Adopts FY2027 Budget
While Funding Challenges Continue
The PRT Board recently adopted the Fiscal Year 2027 operating and capital budgets. While no fare increases or service reductions are on the table for now, a long-term funding solution is still necessary to stabilize or potentially grow service and allow our agency to plan for the future.
The FY2027 operating budget totals $595.7 million, while the capital budget sits at $211.6 million. Without a long-term funding solution, PRT's financial outlook remains uncertain.
The current operating budget is balanced by pulling $15.4 million from PRT's reserve account and applying $44.8 million in capital waiver funding. This is the last capital funding PRT is able to use under the PennDOT waiver granted to PRT and SEPTA last year -- a one-time allowance to avoid transit cuts in Allegheny County and Philadelphia.
It is crucial to secure a long-term funding measure in 2027 to support public transit and other transportation programs statewide.
Without a solution in the coming year, PRT would need to cut service and increase fares in FY2028 as it would face running out of reserves in FY2029.
Transit is a lifeline that connects riders to necessities like healthcare appointments, groceries, families, and jobs. It's also there to support economic and cultural events such as the NFL Draft and countless other events that contribute to the vibrancy of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. In addition, public transit supports the local and state economy in numerous ways.
We look forward to continuing this conversation and working together toward a solution that meets the needs of riders and provides long-term, viable funding that supports PRT and all of its stakeholders throughout the Commonwealth.
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