SEPTA launches new Roosevelt Blvd express bus

Elderly man killed while trying to catch SEPTA bus

Starting this Sunday, commuters in Northeast Philly will get to shave a little time of their trip thanks to SEPTA’s newest express bus.

The new bus, “Boulevard Direct,” debuts service Sunday, Oct. 22, and will transport 10 miles from Frankford to the city limits in just eight stops, an approximately 30-minute ride. Ten brand-new bus stations were also created for the new service, on diesel-electric hybrid buses. 

The bus is intended to offer “frequent service and fewer stops” between Neshaminy Mall and Frankford Transportation Center, SEPTA said, a distance that roughly half of Route 14 riders travel.

SEPTA’s Route 14 bus currently serves the Boulevard, but has 40 stops over the same distance that the Boulevard Direct will cover in eight. SEPTA said the express route would mean the ride will be at least 20 minutes faster for commuters traveling that route.

SEPTA said they planned the Boulevard Direct based on “customer feedback and ridership analysis,” and will consider similar express buses in other congested areas of the city.

Regular SEPTA fares will be accepted on the Boulevard Direct.