SEPTA Key Advantage program expansion begins

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is expanding its institutional pass program, SEPTA Key Advantage, after a successful launch with three introductory partners.

SEPTA is inviting more organizations to participate in this initiative that is bolstering an inclusive recovery for the region. SEPTA Key Advantage allows institutions to acquire SEPTA Key cards directly from the authority and distribute them to employees.

Last month, SEPTA’s Board approved operating and capital budget proposals for Fiscal Year 2023, which allows for the expansion of SEPTA Key Advantage. While Phase I is underway with Drexel University, Penn Medicine and Wawa stores in the city of Philadelphia, SEPTA’s Board approved a tariff change to make the program permanent.

More than 15,000 Drexel University, Penn Medicine and Wawa employees are eligible for SEPTA Key Advantage – with more than 7,000 already using the passes. SEPTA says the program has provided a significant boost in ridership at the three institutions – an 18 percent increase in the first month – with additional gains expected as it continues to build momentum.

“We are thrilled with the initial rollout of SEPTA Key Advantage,” said SEPTA General Manager and CEO Leslie S. Richards. “The program has generated a lot of interest from other employers, and we are excited to be able to extend the benefits of the program to more organizations.”

Participants can use a new or existing SEPTA Key card for their pass. Just like the Monthly Anywhere TrailPass, SEPTA Key Advantage passes can be used on all SEPTA modes, including Regional Rail, Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, Norristown High Speed Line, and city and suburban buses and trolleys.

The target date for the next phase of employees to begin using the passes is September 1.