This week, transit advocates joined Mayor Parker, members of the Philadelphia City Council, and the Philadelphia Parking Authority in celebrating the opening of Philadelphia’s new intercity bus terminal at 1001 Filbert Street.
After Greyhound closed its terminal at the same location in 2023, Philadelphia intercity bus riders faced major challenges. The temporary terminal on Spring Garden street lacked shelter from the rain, heat, and snow and had limited access to restrooms. Additionally, the Spring Garden site featured a single, segregated wheelchair pickup location and the nearby L station lacks an elevator, making access to intercity bus service for bus riders with disabilities nearly impossible.
We welcome the new fully ADA compliant station which provides 24/7 access to bus passengers. It also has amenities like bathrooms with changing stations, vending machines, a lactation pod, and space for a potential future small cafe. The facility has 11 bus bays with 20 bus carriers signed on to provide service to Philadelphians.
According to Transit Forward Philly coalition partner, Disabled in Action member, and Liberty Resources staff member Lauren Alden, “Access to affordable public transit ensures that individuals with disabilities are integrated into the community and not segregated and/or restricted in our ability to live a meaningful life. Nearly 250,000 Philadelphians are disabled, and it goes without question that accessibility at any of our city’s public transportation sites should be prioritized.”
Transit Forward Philly and coalition partners have advocated for years for dignity for intercity bus riders by handing out water on hot days, amplifying the voices of transit riders at City Council meetings, and conducting an accessibility audit. Recently, Transit Forward Philadelphia members shared public comment in support of City Council Transportation and Utilities Committee Chair Mike Driscoll’s Bill No. 26026500. Advocates also joined city leaders at the bill signing authorizing the new terminal.
The Nation magazine recently featured TFP member and Philadelphia disability advocate, Nico Meyering regarding the fight for intercity bus riders in Philly. In the story, Nico shared, “If we are not able to move about the nation as our needs dictate, then our freedom is limited. We don’t have true freedom.”
We join the city in celebrating the bus terminal’s opening in time for Philly to host the FIFA World Cup, MLB All Star Game, and America’s 250th anniversary. But even more importantly, this new facility brings dignity to Philadelphians looking for an affordable ride to visit family or travel to work in nearby cities and students traveling home from school.
Transit Forward Philly looks forward to continuing our advocacy for better intercity bus service and dignity for bus riders in Philadelphia. We are eager to hear your thoughts about the new bus terminal.
