SEPTA says it’s time for all riders to pay their fares.
New gates and 3D technology are replacing turnstiles, attracting passengers who slip through and jump through them to avoid the $2.50 ride fee.
They’re called “fare evaders,” and according to SEPTA, people who don’t pay for their rides generate $30 million to $40 million in revenue for the transit agency each year, but officials say they don’t pay for their rides at newly installed gates. I believe that the situation is changing.
“We need people to know that they have to pay to use SEPTA,” said Leslie Richards, CEO and general manager of SEPTA.
The agency launched a pilot program Wednesday at 69th Street in Upper Darby that will ultimately install 20 new gates by the end of the month for passengers using the Market-Frankford Line and the Norristown Express Line.
If all goes well, more may be coming to other stations.
This type of gate was the first installed in the United States. Currently used in Europe.
“The tops of these gates are just as important as the glass doors of these gates,” Richards said.
Richards demonstrated how the new gates work, with 3D technology built into the top of the gates that can detect fare evaders trailing behind customers who have paid their fare. I explained that.
The data is then transmitted in real-time to SEPTA police dispatch. Then, SEPTA’s 30,000 cameras will take images of people.
Richards told NBC10 she believes these new gates and new technology will deter more serious crimes from occurring at SEPTA.
“Every instance of crime or mass disorder can be traced back to the gateway of fare evasion. We do this time and time again,” said SEPTA Transit Police Chief Chuck Lawson.
According to SEPTA, crime is currently down 42% compared to this time a year ago. Some riders are encouraged by the new gate, hoping it will continue to drop.
“If they don’t pay, they will be in trouble,” said rider Enitan Olunloyo.
Olunloyo also said the new gate made him feel safer during his commute.
SEPTA officials acknowledge these new gates won’t deter everyone.
Implementing the pilot project will cost $1 million. If this happens, both subway and trolley stations will be expanded to five to six additional locations.
