Pittsburgh transit agency seeks funding solutions to avoid service cuts

Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) riders overwhelmingly oppose service cuts and fare increases that were proposed to shore up a projected $100 million operating budget deficit, according to a summary of public comments on the proposals.

PRT leaders are advocating for a long-term funding solution to close the budget gap, including a potential state sales tax, PRT officials said in a press release. The public comments reinforced PRT's argument for a fully funded public transportation industry, they said.

PRT officials anticipate the operating budget deficit due to stagnant state funding, rising inflation and lower ridership since the pandemic.

In response, PRT leaders proposed a 35% reduction in light-rail service starting in February 2026. In addition, they've proposed eliminating Silver Line light-rail service, reducing service frequency,  increasing the base fare to $3 from $2.75 and decreasing paratransit and certain extra services.

Ninety-nine percent of comments were in opposition to proposed service reductions, emphasizing the disproportionate harm to transit-dependent communities, PRT officials said. The proposed cuts would also cancel or delay planned improvement projects. 

"This proposal reflects a worst-case scenario," said PRT CEO Katharine Kelleman. "If we don’t receive new funding, these service cuts and fare hikes are the only path forward."

The full public comment report can be read here.