Council proclaims Transit Equity Day, urges SEPTA to reopen Wilmington ticket office after public comment

The New Castle County Council on Feb. 3 adopted Resolution R26-020 recognizing Feb. 4 as Transit Equity Day and urging reopening and expansion of in-person ticket services at the Joseph R. Biden Jr. Station in Wilmington.

Councilman Tackett, sponsor of the resolution, said the closure of the SEPTA ticket office poses access and affordability challenges for commuters, particularly seniors and people without reliable digital access. Tackett asked DART and SEPTA to reopen the Wilmington ticket office as a regional service hub that can issue senior key cards and disability-related fare products on site.

During the public comment period transit advocate Jaquem Mohammed told council the station’s ticket office had been a "critical access point for riders, commuters, seniors, and people with disabilities," and said its closure "removed choice, assistance, and affordability," noting passengers now sometimes pay higher fares when purchasing remotely.

The council called the roll on R26-020 and the clerk announced the result as 13 yes; the resolution was adopted.

Council members said the resolution affirms the county’s commitment to accessible, affordable public transportation and urged regional providers to restore in-person services that facilitate travel and benefits access for vulnerable residents.

The resolution does not compel action by SEPTA or DART; it is a formal request and public statement of the council’s position. Council members said they will share the resolution with the regional transit agencies identified in the text.