Broad Street Brief: SEPTA Cuts Moving Forward Due to PA Budget Impasse

City Hall

City’s High Overtime Costs Raise Burnout, Staffing Concerns

The City of Philadelphia spent more than $370 million on overtime in 2024, with hundreds of municipal employees—especially those in public safety—doubling or tripling their salaries through long shifts, raising concerns about burnout, staffing shortages, and the impact on worker health and performance.

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City Showcases Riverview Wellness Village to National County Leaders

During July’s National Association of Counties conference, more than 50 county leaders from across the country toured Philadelphia’s 20-acre Riverview Wellness Village, showcasing an integrated housing, recovery, health care, and economic support model for addressing homelessness and substance use disorder.

Around Town

SEPTA Cuts to Proceed as PA House Rejects Senate Transit Proposal

With no funding agreement reached, SEPTA will begin implementing 20% service cuts on August 24, following a party-line vote in the House rejecting the Senate GOP’s short-term funding plan. General Manager Scott Sauer emphasized the need for a more sustainable solution, warning that the current proposal relies too heavily on capital dollars and does not meet long-term needs.

Philly Homicides Continue to Fall, Leaders Push Back on Federal Intervention Threats

Philadelphia is on pace for its second consecutive year of historically low homicides, with officials crediting targeted policing and community investment, even as some experts caution against overinterpreting short-term gains. Meanwhile, local leaders and clergy are pushing back against former President Donald Trump’s threats to deploy federal troops to U.S. cities, calling the move unconstitutional and morally dangerous.

Graffiti-Covered Rittenhouse Tower Sold to NY Developer for Revamp

After years of vacancy and legal disputes, the 17-story apartment building at 16th and Spruce was sold to Zoria Housing, which plans to restore it within 18 months. The historic property will undergo redevelopment using historic tax credits and in-house construction resources.

Vine Street Lane Closures Begin August 18

PennDOT will reduce lanes on Vine Street between 8th and Broad through mid-January to install bike lanes, ADA ramps, and other pedestrian improvements as part of an $8.5 million project, with full completion expected by summer 2026.

FIFA Seeks 3K Philly Volunteers for 2026 World Cup

FIFA opened volunteer applications for the 2026 World Cup, with Philadelphia expected to provide one of the largest volunteer teams, supported by a new hub in the Fashion District. Volunteers will assist with match-day services and logistics across the city’s six scheduled games.

New Park Opens in UCity Featuring Public Art

Highline Park, a new public space in Philadelphia’s Schuylkill Yards, features murals and a sculpture celebrating West Philadelphia’s culture and creativity. The park was developed by Brandywine Realty Trust with local partners to connect the community through art and green space.

Rizzo Statue May Return After Legal Settlement

Philadelphia’s Art Commission is expected to settle with the Frank L. Rizzo Monument Committee, potentially allowing the controversial statue, which was removed in 2020 amid racial justice protests, to be returned to its original owners and displayed again.

Election Update

Dugan to Run as Republican in Philly DA Race

Despite previously denying interest in the GOP nomination, former Judge Patrick Dugan will run as a Republican against incumbent Larry Krasner in the Philadelphia District Attorney race, citing public safety concerns and bipartisan support. His decision has drawn sharp criticism from Democratic leaders, who accuse him of betraying party commitments.

Suburban Spotlight

Delco Weighs Precinct Consolidation to Cut Election Costs

Delaware County is seeking court approval to consolidate 98 voting precincts to reduce administrative expenses and streamline staffing. Officials say the move could save over $100,000 annually, though it faces pushback from some voicing concerns about transparency.

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