In response to an online petition launched last week, which calls on SEPTA to run round-the-clock subway service, top brass at the public transit concern are reportedly crunching numbers to see if the idea is actually financially feasible.

According to Newsworks, SEPTA officials are expected to make their decision known in March when they submit their annual budget proposal.

If it’s found workable, come summer a pilot program will have service along the Broad Street and Market-Frankford lines running past midnight — at least until 3 AM on Fridays and Saturdays — for the first time in more than 20 years. Surely this would make life a little easier for those trying to get home after the bars close. But more importantly, the move would make the streets safer by cutting down on the number of drunk drivers.

Due to money woes and public safety concerns, late-night service along those routes was halted back in the 90s. Obviously, money is still concern, hence the number crunching. But the city is a much different place now than it was back then. Conrad Benner, the petitioner who set the whole thing in motion last week, believes an ever-thriving nightlife, and the workforce that serves it could easily support the newly relaunched late-night service.

Just as a concern for the public’s safety prompted SEPTA to end late-night subway service, that same concern for city residents’ well-being should serve as enough weight to tip the argument toward relaunching it.

SEPTA will announce its decision sometime in mid-March.

If you agree with the late-night proposal, sign the petition here.

Photo: Flickr user pasa