Berks County Transit Faces Uncertain Future as Funding Discussions Continue

Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, August 20th 2025 at 7:31 GMT by WFMZ-TV
^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

Berks County’s public transportation system is at a critical juncture, teetering on the edge of significant service cuts and fare increases if ongoing funding negotiations fail to yield positive results. The Berks Area Reading Transportation Authority (BARTA), responsible for providing bus services across the county, is facing a substantial budget shortfall that threatens its ability to maintain current operations. This situation has sparked concern among riders, community leaders, and BARTA staff alike.

The core issue revolves around a significant reduction in state funding proposed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). While the exact figures remain subject to debate and potential adjustments, BARTA estimates a loss of approximately $3.5 million – roughly 20% of their operating budget – if the current proposal holds. This isn't an isolated problem; transit agencies across the state are facing similar cuts due to shifts in state priorities and revenue projections.

BARTA officials have been actively engaged in discussions with state lawmakers, county commissioners, and other stakeholders to advocate for a more favorable funding outcome. They’ve emphasized the vital role BARTA plays in connecting residents to jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services, particularly for those who lack access to personal vehicles. The agency serves a diverse population, including low-income individuals, seniors, students, and people with disabilities, many of whom rely on public transportation as their primary mode of mobility.

"We're working diligently to communicate the impact these cuts would have on our riders and the community," stated BARTA Executive Director Leonard Light in an interview with WFMZ. "Public transit isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it's a lifeline for many people."

The potential consequences of these funding cuts are stark. Without additional revenue, BARTA is considering several measures to bridge the gap, including:

Service Reductions: Eliminating routes or reducing frequency on existing ones would severely limit accessibility and increase travel times for riders. This could disproportionately impact those in underserved areas.
Fare Increases: Raising fares would place an additional financial burden on riders, potentially discouraging usage and further isolating vulnerable populations.
Staff Layoffs: Reducing the workforce would compromise operational efficiency and negatively affect service quality.
Deferred Maintenance: Postponing necessary maintenance on buses and infrastructure could lead to breakdowns and safety concerns in the long run.

The proposed cuts come at a time when BARTA is already grappling with challenges related to ridership recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. While ridership has gradually increased, it hasn't fully rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, impacting fare revenue. The agency also faces rising operational costs, including fuel and labor expenses.

County Commissioner Christian Yoder acknowledged the severity of the situation and expressed support for BARTA’s efforts to secure additional funding. "We understand the critical role that public transportation plays in our community," he stated. “We are working with state officials to advocate for a solution that protects essential services.”

The ongoing negotiations involve complex political considerations, as lawmakers grapple with competing priorities and budgetary constraints. The outcome remains uncertain, but BARTA is committed to exploring all possible avenues to mitigate the impact of potential funding cuts. This includes seeking alternative funding sources, optimizing operational efficiency, and engaging in community outreach to raise awareness about the importance of public transportation.

BARTA’s situation highlights a broader challenge facing transit agencies nationwide – securing sustainable funding to meet evolving needs and maintain vital services. The future of Berks County's mass transit system hinges on the success of these ongoing discussions and the willingness of policymakers to prioritize investments in accessible and equitable transportation options for all residents. Residents are encouraged to contact their state representatives and county commissioners to voice their support for public transportation funding.

N※N

Berks County Transit Faces Uncertain Future as Funding Discussions Continue