The Port Authority of Allegheny County Board of Directors today released the audited financial statements for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2013.
“We are very pleased that the Authority received a clean audit opinion from its independent auditors,” said David White, Chairman of the Authority’s Audit Committee.
The statements were reviewed and approved by the Board’s Audit Committee, which is comprised of White, Sen. Jim Brewster and Tom Donatelli. The Committee recommended the statements be approved by the full Board. The audit can be viewed online by clicking here.
Maher Duessel, of Pittsburgh, audited the Authority’s financial statements and reported no material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting and major programs. The auditors conducted their audit of the Authority’s financial statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and government auditing standards and noted improved internal financial reporting, despite cutbacks in the Authority’s finance department.
Showing posts with label Budget. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Budget. Show all posts
Monday, November 25, 2013
Monday, August 12, 2013
Service Changes Take Effect Sunday, Sept.1
Schedules for approximately 15 Port Authority bus routes will be adjusted effective Sunday, September 1. Port Authority regularly adjusts schedules four times a year.
September’s service changes include the restoration of a previously eliminated route – the former 55 Jefferson, which will now be called 55 Glassport. Restoring the route will help ensure riders in this part of the Mon Valley will have access to public transportation, as they currently face losing transit service with the uncertain future of the Heritage Worklink van transportation program.
Restoration of the 55 Glassport was achieved within the Authority’s current budget, which did not require a fare increase or other service reductions.
Ensuring Mon Valley residents maintain access to public transportation became a community-wide concern, and a solution was achieved thanks to the cooperative efforts of numerous local officials, including County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, State Senators Jay Costa and Jim Brewster, State Representatives Marc Gergely, Bill Kortz, Paul Costa and Harry Readshaw, and Allegheny County Council Member Bob Macey.
Information on the changes, including links to new schedules, is now posted on our Service Changes page.
September’s service changes include the restoration of a previously eliminated route – the former 55 Jefferson, which will now be called 55 Glassport. Restoring the route will help ensure riders in this part of the Mon Valley will have access to public transportation, as they currently face losing transit service with the uncertain future of the Heritage Worklink van transportation program.
Restoration of the 55 Glassport was achieved within the Authority’s current budget, which did not require a fare increase or other service reductions.
Ensuring Mon Valley residents maintain access to public transportation became a community-wide concern, and a solution was achieved thanks to the cooperative efforts of numerous local officials, including County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, State Senators Jay Costa and Jim Brewster, State Representatives Marc Gergely, Bill Kortz, Paul Costa and Harry Readshaw, and Allegheny County Council Member Bob Macey.
Information on the changes, including links to new schedules, is now posted on our Service Changes page.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Have You Heard?
Port Authority is trying new forms of advertising to help generate more revenue
for bus and T operations.
We recently began testing onboard audio ads at five stop locations in Downtown, Oakland and the South Side. These ads are loaded into our buses’ existing announcement system. When the bus passes one of the five stops, a brief audio ad is played.
We understand you may not be used to hearing ads on the bus, but new and different forms of advertising are tools we can use to support our system without raising fares or cutting services to save money.
These audio ads are made possible by a partnership with Commuter Advertising, a company that has successfully introduced this kind of advertising at transit agencies in Cincinnati, Jacksonville and other cities. Commuter Advertising makes money by selling these ads and shares a portion of the revenue with Port Authority. Since these ads use our existing audio systems, there is no cost to Port Authority for this program.
We have a lot of new advertising ideas that we’ll be rolling out over the next year, like website ads. We’re also looking at unused space at stations and along our rights-of-way as possible advertising opportunities.
If you’d like to learn more about the different kinds of advertising we offer, check out our Ad Products page. Or if you’d like to share your thoughts on these ads, don’t hesitate to contact us.
We recently began testing onboard audio ads at five stop locations in Downtown, Oakland and the South Side. These ads are loaded into our buses’ existing announcement system. When the bus passes one of the five stops, a brief audio ad is played.
We understand you may not be used to hearing ads on the bus, but new and different forms of advertising are tools we can use to support our system without raising fares or cutting services to save money.
These audio ads are made possible by a partnership with Commuter Advertising, a company that has successfully introduced this kind of advertising at transit agencies in Cincinnati, Jacksonville and other cities. Commuter Advertising makes money by selling these ads and shares a portion of the revenue with Port Authority. Since these ads use our existing audio systems, there is no cost to Port Authority for this program.
We have a lot of new advertising ideas that we’ll be rolling out over the next year, like website ads. We’re also looking at unused space at stations and along our rights-of-way as possible advertising opportunities.
If you’d like to learn more about the different kinds of advertising we offer, check out our Ad Products page. Or if you’d like to share your thoughts on these ads, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Transit Cuts Postponed for One Year
State, County, Union and Port Authority Reaffirm Need for Long-Term Solution
Port Authority's Board of Directors today voted in a special meeting to postpone the planned 35-percent service reduction until at least August 31, 2013, following the ratification of a new labor contract with Amalgamated Transit Union's Local 85. This gives state and Allegheny County officials more time to develop a long-term transportation funding strategy.
Following the special Board meeting, a press conference was held with Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, Pennsylvania Secretary of Transportation Barry Schoch, ATU Local 85 President Steve Palonis and Port Authority CEO Steve Bland.
View the statement released by the County Executive’s office regarding today’s Board actions and future steps needed to preserve public transportation in Allegheny County, including details on additional funding from the county.
Port Authority's Board of Directors today voted in a special meeting to postpone the planned 35-percent service reduction until at least August 31, 2013, following the ratification of a new labor contract with Amalgamated Transit Union's Local 85. This gives state and Allegheny County officials more time to develop a long-term transportation funding strategy.
Following the special Board meeting, a press conference was held with Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, Pennsylvania Secretary of Transportation Barry Schoch, ATU Local 85 President Steve Palonis and Port Authority CEO Steve Bland.
View the statement released by the County Executive’s office regarding today’s Board actions and future steps needed to preserve public transportation in Allegheny County, including details on additional funding from the county.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Special Board Meeting on August 21
Port Authority of Allegheny County’s Board of Directors will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 10 a.m. The meeting will be held in the Neal H. Holmes Board Room, 345 Sixth Avenue, Fifth Floor, in Downtown Pittsburgh.
The purpose of the meeting is for the Board to consider actions relative to Port Authority’s Fiscal Year 2013 operating budget, pending service reductions and Port Authority’s collective bargaining agreement with Local 85 of the Amalgamated Transit Union.
The purpose of the meeting is for the Board to consider actions relative to Port Authority’s Fiscal Year 2013 operating budget, pending service reductions and Port Authority’s collective bargaining agreement with Local 85 of the Amalgamated Transit Union.
Friday, July 27, 2012
ACCESS Paratransit Service Cuts Temporarily Avoided
The devastating cuts facing ACCESS riders will not occur in September, thanks to a special funding arrangement made possible by PennDOT and two federal programs that benefit transit riders with disabilities.
The Port Authority Board of Directors today unanimously voted to accept the funding and rescind plans that would have reduced ACCESS service hours and service area starting on September 2, 2012. Talks focused on resolving the broader transportation funding issues and the 35 percent Port Authority service reduction in September are ongoing and involve officials from the state, county, Authority and Amalgamated Transit Union Local 85.
The ACCESS cuts would have been devastating to those riders throughout Allegheny County who rely on the shared-ride program that serves elderly and disabled riders. Some ACCESS riders have no other direct means of transportation.
The funding was made available through the federal Job Access and Reverse Commute, and New Freedom programs, both of which are matched by the state. This agreement follows calls for solutions to public transportation funding by Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, who is leading a broader effort to find lasting solutions to protect Port Authority bus and light rail service. Also, members of the Allegheny County delegation in the State Senate and House supported efforts to maintain viable transportation options for seniors and riders with disabilities throughout the county.
The Authority Board today voted to amend its current budget and accept $3.65 million from the state and federal sources, ensuring ACCESS service will remain stable through September 1, 2013.
"This will make a tremendous difference for people with disabilities, living outside the Port Authority service area who depend on ACCESS," said Lucy Spruill, an ACCESS rider and the Public Policy Director for UCP/CLASS. "This will allow those riders to leave their homes for work, health care and to enjoy meaningful lives.
"We very much appreciate the efforts of County Executive Fitzgerald, the Allegheny County legislative delegation as well as PennDOT, Port Authority and ACCESS. We look forward to continuing to work together to preserve public transportation for all the citizens of Allegheny County.”
The funding is a temporary solution for ACCESS riders. If no long-term solution is in place by September 1, 2013, ACCESS service reductions may take effect.
The Port Authority Board of Directors today unanimously voted to accept the funding and rescind plans that would have reduced ACCESS service hours and service area starting on September 2, 2012. Talks focused on resolving the broader transportation funding issues and the 35 percent Port Authority service reduction in September are ongoing and involve officials from the state, county, Authority and Amalgamated Transit Union Local 85.
The ACCESS cuts would have been devastating to those riders throughout Allegheny County who rely on the shared-ride program that serves elderly and disabled riders. Some ACCESS riders have no other direct means of transportation.
The funding was made available through the federal Job Access and Reverse Commute, and New Freedom programs, both of which are matched by the state. This agreement follows calls for solutions to public transportation funding by Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, who is leading a broader effort to find lasting solutions to protect Port Authority bus and light rail service. Also, members of the Allegheny County delegation in the State Senate and House supported efforts to maintain viable transportation options for seniors and riders with disabilities throughout the county.
The Authority Board today voted to amend its current budget and accept $3.65 million from the state and federal sources, ensuring ACCESS service will remain stable through September 1, 2013.
"This will make a tremendous difference for people with disabilities, living outside the Port Authority service area who depend on ACCESS," said Lucy Spruill, an ACCESS rider and the Public Policy Director for UCP/CLASS. "This will allow those riders to leave their homes for work, health care and to enjoy meaningful lives.
"We very much appreciate the efforts of County Executive Fitzgerald, the Allegheny County legislative delegation as well as PennDOT, Port Authority and ACCESS. We look forward to continuing to work together to preserve public transportation for all the citizens of Allegheny County.”
The funding is a temporary solution for ACCESS riders. If no long-term solution is in place by September 1, 2013, ACCESS service reductions may take effect.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Port Authority Fares Increase July 1
Starting Sunday, July 1, increases go into effect on most Port Authority fares, including cash fares for full-fare and half-fare riders, all tickets and passes.
The fare increase is required to balance Port Authority’s budget for Fiscal Year 2013, which begins July 1.
Fare changes are as follows:
Fare Changes Effective July 1, 2012
Starting June 25, riders who pay with tickets may bring old tickets to the Downtown Service Center to exchange them for new tickets, which they can begin using July 1. Riders have until the end of 2012 to exchange tickets and should bring a photo ID when exchanging. Tickets are not refundable for cash.
Additionally, riders may use old tickets on the T, bus or incline through September 30, 2012 if they pay the difference in cash:
• Old 1-Zone full-fare ticket + 25 cents
• Old 1-Zone half-fare ticket + 15 cents
• Old 2-Zone full-fare ticket + 50 cents
• Old 2-Zone half-fare ticket + 25 cents
Fare changes will also go into effect July 1 for ACCESS riders.
For questions or assistance, call Customer Service at 412-442-2000 or for TTY, 412-231-7007.
The fare increase is required to balance Port Authority’s budget for Fiscal Year 2013, which begins July 1.
Fare changes are as follows:
Fare Changes Effective July 1, 2012
| Current Fares Full Fare / Half Fare |
New Fares Full Fare / Half Fare |
|
| One-Way Cash Fare Bus, T & Inclines |
||
| Free Zone | Free | Free |
| 1 Zone | $2.25 / $1.10 | $2.50 / $1.25 |
| 2 Zone | $3.25 / $1.60 | $3.75 / $1.85 |
| T System Surcharges | ||
| 1 Zone | 75 cents / 35 cents | 75 cents / 35 cents |
| 2 Zone | 75 cents / 35 cents | 75 cents / 35 cents |
| Surcharge added to T cash fares from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. inbound and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. outbound, weekdays only. | ||
| Transfers | $1.00 / 50 cents | $1.00 / 50 cents |
| Transfers are good for a connecting one-zone ride in any direction and valid for three hours. | ||
| Weekly Pass | ||
| 1 Zone | $22.50 | $25.00 |
| 2 Zone | $32.50 | $37.50 |
| Monthly Pass | ||
| 1 Zone | $90.00 | $97.50 |
| 2 Zone | $130.00 | $146.25 |
| 2 Zone Go-Pass | $152.00 | $168.25 |
| Annual Pass | ||
| 1 Zone | $990.00 | $1,072.50 |
| 2 Zone | $1,430.00 | $1,608.75 |
| 2 Zone Go-Pass | $1,680.00 | $1,850.75 |
| Annual passes are priced at 11 times the monthly zone pass rate and provide riders with one free month of rides. | ||
| Ten Trip Ticket Book | ||
| 1 Zone | $22.50 / $11.00 | $25.00 / $12.50 |
| 2 Zone | $32.50 / $16.00 | $37.50 / $18.50 |
Starting June 25, riders who pay with tickets may bring old tickets to the Downtown Service Center to exchange them for new tickets, which they can begin using July 1. Riders have until the end of 2012 to exchange tickets and should bring a photo ID when exchanging. Tickets are not refundable for cash.
Additionally, riders may use old tickets on the T, bus or incline through September 30, 2012 if they pay the difference in cash:
• Old 1-Zone full-fare ticket + 25 cents
• Old 1-Zone half-fare ticket + 15 cents
• Old 2-Zone full-fare ticket + 50 cents
• Old 2-Zone half-fare ticket + 25 cents
Fare changes will also go into effect July 1 for ACCESS riders.
For questions or assistance, call Customer Service at 412-442-2000 or for TTY, 412-231-7007.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Board Adopts Fiscal Year 2013 Budget
Port Authority's Board of Directors today adopted a $333 million operating budget for Fiscal Year 2013 (July 1, 2012 – June 30, 2013). The budget is balanced, assumes no additional outside funding and includes a fare increase set for July 1 and a 35-percent service reduction scheduled for September 2.
The Fiscal Year 2013 budget may be amended if changes are made to Port Authority’s operating funding or expenses.
"We continue to work with state, county and union leadership on a solution in the hopes of avoiding the September service reductions," said Port Authority CEO Steve Bland. “Collectively we recognize the loss of 46 transit routes would be devastating to our community and to the local economy.”
This year's operating budget contains $333 million in total expenses, down from $370.2 million total expenses in Fiscal Year 2012. View a presentation on the budget.
Capital BudgetThe Authority's Board also approved capital improvement budgets for two years. The Fiscal Year 2012-13 budget totals $138 million and Fiscal Year 2013-2014 budget totals $135 million. The Fiscal Year 2013 capital budget has been amended from an original projection of $149 million, deferring additional bus purchases, and park and ride expansion.
Operating and capital improvement budgets serve different functions. The capital budget reflects how Port Authority maintains its extensive system, including more than 26 miles of light rail tracks, nearly 15 miles of busways and roughly 800 vehicles. Capital funding cannot be used for operating expenses.
The Fiscal Year 2013 budget may be amended if changes are made to Port Authority’s operating funding or expenses.
"We continue to work with state, county and union leadership on a solution in the hopes of avoiding the September service reductions," said Port Authority CEO Steve Bland. “Collectively we recognize the loss of 46 transit routes would be devastating to our community and to the local economy.”
This year's operating budget contains $333 million in total expenses, down from $370.2 million total expenses in Fiscal Year 2012. View a presentation on the budget.
Capital BudgetThe Authority's Board also approved capital improvement budgets for two years. The Fiscal Year 2012-13 budget totals $138 million and Fiscal Year 2013-2014 budget totals $135 million. The Fiscal Year 2013 capital budget has been amended from an original projection of $149 million, deferring additional bus purchases, and park and ride expansion.
Operating and capital improvement budgets serve different functions. The capital budget reflects how Port Authority maintains its extensive system, including more than 26 miles of light rail tracks, nearly 15 miles of busways and roughly 800 vehicles. Capital funding cannot be used for operating expenses.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Fare & Service Changes Authorized
Port Authority’s Board of Directors last week voted to authorize a fare increase and 35-percent service reduction scheduled to go into effect later this year. Port Authority is legally obligated to balance its budget, and these actions are prompted by a $64 million deficit projected for the Fiscal Year 2013 operating budget.
The Board's vote is reversible. The vote authorizes Port Authority staff to begin preparing for the changes – writing new schedules, preparing for staffing reductions and a garage closure, and other actions. While staff must prepare for the worst, the service reductions may be scaled back or rescinded entirely if Port Authority’s finances improve.
“I want to direct staff to also plan for the best outcome,” said Guy Mattola, the Board’s vice-chairman. “Make sure we are prepared to sustain current service levels so that the Board could later convene on short notice to reverse these cuts if an adequate funding solution is found.”
If nothing changes, the fare increase would go into effect on July 1 and the service reduction would go into effect September 2. Under the service reduction proposal, about 46 routes would be eliminated with service scaled back on all remaining routes. The ACCESS paratransit program would for the first time see deep cuts that would restrict transit options for persons with disabilities.
The only change to the proposal is that the 28X Airport Flyer’s airport segment will be preserved due to recently secured federal Job Access Reverse Commute funds. The 28X is the only Port Authority route funded through this program.
Details on fare and service proposals are available on our Service Reductions page or by calling Customer Service at 412-442-2000 or the TTY number, (412) 231-7007.
Friday, February 3, 2012
Comment Period on Service Proposal Starts Sunday
The public comment period for Port Authority’s proposed service reduction and fare increase begins this Sunday, Feb. 5.
Starting Sunday, a form will be available on Port Authority’s website for riders and community members to leave their comments on the proposal. The form is accessible through the Service Reductions page.
Port Authority will also accept comments by mail at Port Authority Fare & Service Proposals, Heinz 57 Center, 345 Sixth Avenue, Floor 3, Pittsburgh PA, 15222-2527.
The public comment period ends Friday, March 9 at 4 p.m. A public hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 29 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown Pittsburgh.
During the public comment period and hearing, Port Authority will also take comments on proposed changes to service and fares for the ACCESS paratransit program.
For more information on proposed service and fare changes, as well as the public hearing, view the Service Reductions page or call Port Authority Customer Service (412-442-2000 / TTY: 412-231-7007).
Starting Sunday, a form will be available on Port Authority’s website for riders and community members to leave their comments on the proposal. The form is accessible through the Service Reductions page.
Port Authority will also accept comments by mail at Port Authority Fare & Service Proposals, Heinz 57 Center, 345 Sixth Avenue, Floor 3, Pittsburgh PA, 15222-2527.
The public comment period ends Friday, March 9 at 4 p.m. A public hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 29 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown Pittsburgh.
During the public comment period and hearing, Port Authority will also take comments on proposed changes to service and fares for the ACCESS paratransit program.
For more information on proposed service and fare changes, as well as the public hearing, view the Service Reductions page or call Port Authority Customer Service (412-442-2000 / TTY: 412-231-7007).
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Service Cuts, Fare Increases Proposed Due to Budget Deficit
Port Authority is facing a $64 million deficit in its operating budget for the coming fiscal year, starting July 1. This deficit stems from a lack of dedicated funding for transportation at the state level.
Left without adequate state funding, Port Authority will have no choice but to slash service, increase fares and lay off employees in order to balance its budget, which it is legally obligated to do.
These actions would be devastating. More than 40 routes would be eliminated from the 100 we currently operate, and schedules would be reduced on all remaining routes. Commuter service to many suburbs would disappear. Late-night service would be cut on all but a few routes, negatively impacting the shift workers so many employers depend upon. Riders who rely on ACCESS paratransit would see fare increases and decreased service. And hundreds of Port Authority employees would be laid off.
However, these devastating cuts do not have to happen. Adequate state transportation funding could prevent this drastic step.State Reps. Dan Frankel and Mike Sturla have introduced a bill (HB 2112) that would ensure funding for Pennsylvania’s transportation system, including roads, bridges and mass transit. You might recall that Sen. Jake Corman proposed similar legislation last year. And just last week, Transportation Secretary Barry Schoch said Gov. Corbett would propose a transportation funding package next month.
Of these, Rep. Frankel’s proposal clearly would help sustain public transportation in Allegheny County. We would not have to cut 35 percent of our service.
There’s likely to be much discussion of these proposals in coming weeks. Be assured that we’ll continue to stand up for those who want a thriving public transportation system in Allegheny County.
Passage of a bill would be the first of two steps necessary to get Port Authority in a stable financial position. The second step is tackling legacy costs and securing union concessions during this year’s contract negotiations.
While we continue advocating for adequate state funding, Port Authority must at the same time prepare for the worst. Without a state funding solution and real progress on legacy costs, fare increases would go into effect July 1, with service cuts to follow on September 2.
It is our deepest hope that we do not have to enact these service cuts and fare increases – that our state government recognizes the devastating impact they would have on our community and regional economy, and acts to avert this crisis.
Full details on possible service and fare actions are now posted on our website, including a service reduction/fare increase chart, system maps showing affected areas, and information on possible changes to ACCESS. We will also hold a public hearing and public comment period so that riders and community members may comment on the proposals. View full details.
Left without adequate state funding, Port Authority will have no choice but to slash service, increase fares and lay off employees in order to balance its budget, which it is legally obligated to do.
These actions would be devastating. More than 40 routes would be eliminated from the 100 we currently operate, and schedules would be reduced on all remaining routes. Commuter service to many suburbs would disappear. Late-night service would be cut on all but a few routes, negatively impacting the shift workers so many employers depend upon. Riders who rely on ACCESS paratransit would see fare increases and decreased service. And hundreds of Port Authority employees would be laid off.
However, these devastating cuts do not have to happen. Adequate state transportation funding could prevent this drastic step.State Reps. Dan Frankel and Mike Sturla have introduced a bill (HB 2112) that would ensure funding for Pennsylvania’s transportation system, including roads, bridges and mass transit. You might recall that Sen. Jake Corman proposed similar legislation last year. And just last week, Transportation Secretary Barry Schoch said Gov. Corbett would propose a transportation funding package next month.
Of these, Rep. Frankel’s proposal clearly would help sustain public transportation in Allegheny County. We would not have to cut 35 percent of our service.
There’s likely to be much discussion of these proposals in coming weeks. Be assured that we’ll continue to stand up for those who want a thriving public transportation system in Allegheny County.
Passage of a bill would be the first of two steps necessary to get Port Authority in a stable financial position. The second step is tackling legacy costs and securing union concessions during this year’s contract negotiations.
While we continue advocating for adequate state funding, Port Authority must at the same time prepare for the worst. Without a state funding solution and real progress on legacy costs, fare increases would go into effect July 1, with service cuts to follow on September 2.
It is our deepest hope that we do not have to enact these service cuts and fare increases – that our state government recognizes the devastating impact they would have on our community and regional economy, and acts to avert this crisis.
Full details on possible service and fare actions are now posted on our website, including a service reduction/fare increase chart, system maps showing affected areas, and information on possible changes to ACCESS. We will also hold a public hearing and public comment period so that riders and community members may comment on the proposals. View full details.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Reminder: No Steelers shuttle service this season.
With the Pittsburgh Steelers regular football season starting this weekend, Port Authority of Allegheny County reminds fans that special bus service to Heinz Field will not be offered this year.
Fans still may use regular Port Authority bus and T service to reach the North Shore on game days. The Trip Planner at PortAuthority.org is a convenient way to locate nearby routes and view schedules, and route information is also available through Google Maps.
Also, the T will offer service to two new North Shore stations starting in March 2012, providing more convenient transit access to sports venues, including Heinz Field, and other popular destinations.
The Steelers service was eliminated within a 15 percent reduction in service on March 27 to address a loss in state funding. At that time, 29 routes were eliminated and 37 others saw significant reductions. The Harmar bus division was closed and about 270 Authority jobs were eliminated.
The Steelers start the regular season on Sunday, Sept. 11, in Baltimore. The first home game at Heinz Field will be on Sept. 18.
For route information, riders may visit www.portauthority.org or contact Port Authority Customer Service at (412) 442-2000 or the TTY number, (412) 231-7007.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Headlines: Study says most transit systems cutting service, raising fares.
Port Authority is not alone in its need for reliable transit funding. According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, a recent study from the American Public Transportation Association showed that more than half of the nation's transit system cut services or raised fares since 2010 due to funding issues and rising costs.
Read more here.
Read more here.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Headlines: "Port Authority in Peril?"
Last night, KDKA-AM's Robert Mangino hosted Port Authority CEO Steve Bland for an hour-long interview. The topic? The two largest financial issues facing Port Authority today: funding and legacy costs.
Listen here.
Listen here.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Port Authority Reaches Agreement with Police Union
The Port Authority Board of Directors today approved a new labor agreement with the Port Authority Transit Police Association, which represents its police officers.
The agreement runs through July 31, 2013 and applies to more than 30 employees who work for the Authority's Police Department. This agreement was ratified by our police officers, but not by the unit representing sergeants and lieutenants, who work under a separate agreement. Management will continue to work with that group to reach a settlement.
The contract is retroactive to Aug. 1, 2009. Wages are frozen under the first two years of the agreement with the possibility of increases in the last two years.
"Recognizing the current financial condition of the Authority, this is certainly an austerity contract," said Jack Brooks, Chairman of the Port Authority Board of Directors. "Our police already have helped address the legacy cost issue as they gave up post-retirement healthcare in 2007 along with management and non-represented staff."
Also, new police employees hired on or after Sept. 1 will be enrolled in a defined contribution retirement program along with management and non-represented staff.
The agreement runs through July 31, 2013 and applies to more than 30 employees who work for the Authority's Police Department. This agreement was ratified by our police officers, but not by the unit representing sergeants and lieutenants, who work under a separate agreement. Management will continue to work with that group to reach a settlement.
The contract is retroactive to Aug. 1, 2009. Wages are frozen under the first two years of the agreement with the possibility of increases in the last two years.
"Recognizing the current financial condition of the Authority, this is certainly an austerity contract," said Jack Brooks, Chairman of the Port Authority Board of Directors. "Our police already have helped address the legacy cost issue as they gave up post-retirement healthcare in 2007 along with management and non-represented staff."
Also, new police employees hired on or after Sept. 1 will be enrolled in a defined contribution retirement program along with management and non-represented staff.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Headlines: The Future of Port Authority...by Port Authority
Lately, Post-Gazette's "The Next Page" column has featured several pieces dealing with public transportation. The Post-Gazette recently invited Port Authority staffers to author their own piece explaining how we've tried to improve the system, what challenges we've faced and what's next. Read all about it in "The Future of Port Authority...by Port Authority."
Friday, June 24, 2011
Port Authority Board Adopts Fiscal Year 2012 Budgets
Port Authority's Board of Directors today adopted a $370.2 million operating budget for its Fiscal Year 2012 (July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012) that maintains service, staffing and fares at current levels.
"There's a window of opportunity now for leaders across the state to finally resolve the transportation funding crisis," said Authority CEO Steve Bland. "Collectively, we can establish a more reliable and sustainable funding source to ensure public transportation continues benefiting riders in the Pittsburgh region and throughout the state."
The Authority is able to stabilize service, fares and staffing through June 30, 2012 only by using most of its remaining reserves and the remainder of the one-time $45 million emergency contribution made by former Gov. Rendell. If leaders are unable to agree on a transportation funding solution by the end of FY 2012, Port Authority then would face a significant deficit for FY 2013 and be forced to cut more service to offset the reduction in funding.
"We're very encouraged by the widespread interest in protecting our transportation programs in Pennsylvania and Gov. Corbett's initiative to seek potential solutions through the Transportation Funding Advisory Commission," Bland said.
The Commission is expected to issue recommendations by Aug. 1.
The Authority's balanced budget follows a rocky year for transit riders. The Authority was forced to increase fares, reduce service by 15 percent in March and eliminate 260 positions to help offset the state funding cuts.
In Pennsylvania, all public transit systems receive a significant level of funding, based on a formula, from state government to help provide daily services. At Port Authority, this amount is supposed to be $184.1 million. However, a state budget shortfall was caused last year primarily by a federal decision to not allow Pennsylvania to generate revenue by charging tolls on Interstate 80. In addition, state sales tax receipts were down.
A few facts about this year's budget:
The Authority's Board also approved capital improvement budgets for two years. The fiscal year 2011-12 budget totals $182.9 million and the fiscal year 2012-13 budget totals $149.2 million.
Operating and capital improvement budgets serve different functions. Capital funding received from local, state and federal sources that is designated for specific projects cannot be used for operating expenses.
The capital budget reflects how Port Authority maintains its extensive system, including 26 miles of light rail tracks, nearly 15 miles of busways and roughly 800 vehicles. Major projects such as the North Shore Connector extension are paid with capital budget dollars, not operating dollars.
"There's a window of opportunity now for leaders across the state to finally resolve the transportation funding crisis," said Authority CEO Steve Bland. "Collectively, we can establish a more reliable and sustainable funding source to ensure public transportation continues benefiting riders in the Pittsburgh region and throughout the state."
The Authority is able to stabilize service, fares and staffing through June 30, 2012 only by using most of its remaining reserves and the remainder of the one-time $45 million emergency contribution made by former Gov. Rendell. If leaders are unable to agree on a transportation funding solution by the end of FY 2012, Port Authority then would face a significant deficit for FY 2013 and be forced to cut more service to offset the reduction in funding.
"We're very encouraged by the widespread interest in protecting our transportation programs in Pennsylvania and Gov. Corbett's initiative to seek potential solutions through the Transportation Funding Advisory Commission," Bland said.
The Commission is expected to issue recommendations by Aug. 1.
The Authority's balanced budget follows a rocky year for transit riders. The Authority was forced to increase fares, reduce service by 15 percent in March and eliminate 260 positions to help offset the state funding cuts.
In Pennsylvania, all public transit systems receive a significant level of funding, based on a formula, from state government to help provide daily services. At Port Authority, this amount is supposed to be $184.1 million. However, a state budget shortfall was caused last year primarily by a federal decision to not allow Pennsylvania to generate revenue by charging tolls on Interstate 80. In addition, state sales tax receipts were down.
A few facts about this year's budget:
- $370.2 million total expenses, up from $356.6 million – about a 3.8 percent increase.
- Approximately $40 million in one-time use of reserves and the remainder of the state’s $45 million emergency contribution are needed to balance the budget.
- Port Authority projects ending FY 2012 with only $10 million in reserves.
- Union employees will receive a 3 percent contractual wage increase. Non-union employees are under a wage freeze.
The Authority's Board also approved capital improvement budgets for two years. The fiscal year 2011-12 budget totals $182.9 million and the fiscal year 2012-13 budget totals $149.2 million.
Operating and capital improvement budgets serve different functions. Capital funding received from local, state and federal sources that is designated for specific projects cannot be used for operating expenses.
The capital budget reflects how Port Authority maintains its extensive system, including 26 miles of light rail tracks, nearly 15 miles of busways and roughly 800 vehicles. Major projects such as the North Shore Connector extension are paid with capital budget dollars, not operating dollars.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Headlines: "Critical need: Let's keep an open mind on transportation funding"
This week the Post-Gazette editorial page weighs in on transportation funding and the monumental task that the newly created Transportation Funding Advisory Commission faces -- determining solutions for sustainably funding mass transit and Pennsylvania's deteriorating roads and bridges. Read more.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Fiscal Year 2012 Budget Introduced.
Port Authority's proposed Fiscal Year 2012 budget keeps current service levels, fares and staffing stable through June 30, 2012.
However, if the state's transportation funding crisis is not resolved, the Authority could be facing further challenges in 2013. Read more about current efforts to address transportation funding in Pennsylvania.
A slideshow presentation providing an overview of the proposed budget -- including context, highlights and possible and challenges is available on Port Authority's website, as are charts detailing the proposed operating and capital budgets.
The Board of Directors will vote on the Fiscal Year 2012 budget at its June 24 meeting.
However, if the state's transportation funding crisis is not resolved, the Authority could be facing further challenges in 2013. Read more about current efforts to address transportation funding in Pennsylvania.
A slideshow presentation providing an overview of the proposed budget -- including context, highlights and possible and challenges is available on Port Authority's website, as are charts detailing the proposed operating and capital budgets.
The Board of Directors will vote on the Fiscal Year 2012 budget at its June 24 meeting.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Update on PA Transportation Funding Advisory Commission
Gov. Tom Corbett's newly created Transportation Funding Advisory Commission has been discussing the statewide funding crisis since April and is expected to recommend potential solutions for roads, bridges and transit by Aug. 1. The group is led by PennDOT Secretary Barry Schoch and charged with looking at potential long-term transportation funding solutions for roads, bridges and transit.
The 35-member commission consists of representatives from throughout Pennsylvania (the full membership list is available on the Commission’s website) and has met twice since its inception, with a third meeting scheduled for today.
Meetings have been focused on a number of topics, including the history of transportation funding in Pennsylvania and a brainstorming session on possible funding ideas for transportation. Meeting minutes and materials are available for public download on the Commission’s website.
Port Authority is closely following the Commission's progress and remains eager to work with leaders statewide on recommendations that would provide sustainable and growing funding sources for roads, bridges and public transit for years to come.
The 35-member commission consists of representatives from throughout Pennsylvania (the full membership list is available on the Commission’s website) and has met twice since its inception, with a third meeting scheduled for today.
Meetings have been focused on a number of topics, including the history of transportation funding in Pennsylvania and a brainstorming session on possible funding ideas for transportation. Meeting minutes and materials are available for public download on the Commission’s website.
Port Authority is closely following the Commission's progress and remains eager to work with leaders statewide on recommendations that would provide sustainable and growing funding sources for roads, bridges and public transit for years to come.
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