PHILADELPHIA, PA — Mayor Jim Kenney officially enacted Bill No. 230489, titled “Camera-Based Enforcement System For Parking, Stopping, and Standing Violations That Interfere With Mass Transit,” on November 9. The bill-signing ceremony took place at SEPTA headquarters with Councilmember Mark Squilla (1st District), Councilmember Jamie Gauthier (3rd District), SEPTA General Manager Leslie Richards, Philadelphia Parking Authority Executive Director Richard Lazer, and various advocacy groups and supporters.
This ordinance authorizes the use of window-mounted camera technology by SEPTA to identify and penalize vehicles illegally obstructing transit stops and bus lanes. The initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance traffic safety, and contribute to Philadelphia’s climate crisis response.
The Kenney administration has prioritized supporting public transit since its inception, emphasizing the safety of residents and visitors while ensuring smooth traffic flow. An earlier pilot program conducted by SEPTA, in partnership with Hayden AI, equipped buses on Routes 21 and 42 with AI-driven cameras. During the 70-day trial, over 36,000 obstructions were detected across Center City, West Philadelphia, and Upper Darby.
The legislation addresses equity in public transportation, particularly for the 42% of Black residents and 50% of impoverished households in Philadelphia without a car. The ordinance also focuses on improving safety and accessibility for seniors and disabled riders by keeping bus stops and curb ramps clear.
Introduced to the City Council by Councilmember Squilla on June 8, 2023, the bill was unanimously passed on October 26, 2023. The camera-based enforcement will be implemented on key streets including Bainbridge Street, Spring Garden Street, JFK Boulevard, Walnut Street, Chestnut Street, and Market Street, covering their entire stretches from river to river.