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PATCO Ridership Continues To Surge

As the cost of a gallon of gasoline hits the $4.00 mark, many drivers are escaping the pain at the pump by riding PATCO as ridership continues to increase at a significant pace. PATCO daily ridership is now averaging around 36,800 passengers and that’s an increase of 2,900 rides a day compared to the same period last year or an increase of 8.4%. In just the last month, the daily ridership has gone up 2%. PATCO President, John J. Matheussen, says “PATCO service is reliable and now much easier on the wallet than driving considering the cost of gasoline and parking.” PATCO General Manager, Bob Box, adds “not only is riding PATCO economical, but it also provides a comfortable and dependable ride.” And, Box points out PATCO is making upgrades including a planned $180-million rehabilitation of all of its cars. Work will begin soon on the installation of upgraded cameras for surveillance throughout the system as well as emergency communication devices on platforms and in parking lots. In addition, implementation of the FREEDOM card fare collection system has been made it more convenient for PATCO riders to make the daily commute. The 19 people in the new Transit Ambassador Program also provide assistance to commuters. The Delaware River Port Authority is a regional transportation agency. DRPA owns and operates the Benjamin Franklin, Walt Whitman, Commodore Barry and Betsy Ross Bridges, and PATCO, the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal and the RiverLink Ferry.

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