PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Temple University students are grappling with higher commuting costs and longer travel times following SEPTA's recent 20% service cuts, which took effect over the weekend.
Alazha Weems, a student from Olney, said the changes have forced her to rely on ride-share services to get to class.
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"I probably spend about $5 if I had to take the bus and the train," Weems said. "But I spend $60 a day now."
SEPTA's cuts have eliminated some bus routes and reduced frequency on others, leaving many students without affordable transit options. Temple University began its fall semester this week, and the impact was felt immediately.
"We got to get the city back and moving," said Temple student David Fernandez. "If people can't get places, no work gets done."
SEPTA estimates that approximately 12,000 Temple students and staff use its services to commute, including buses, trains, and subways. In addition to the current reductions, further fare increases and Regional Rail service cuts are expected next week.
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John Luu, a student commuting from Lawncrest, said he's already adjusting his schedule to accommodate the changes.
"People need these things to run efficiently, and people have lives to get on with," Luu said.
Temple University has responded by expanding campus shuttle services, offering discounted flex parking, and allowing shared parking permits. Still, some students say the measures fall short.
"I don't have no choice but to do that, literally," Weems said of her costly Uber rides.
This marks only the first round of SEPTA's planned service reductions. A second wave, expected in January, could eliminate five Regional Rail lines and cut additional bus routes.