KYW Flashback: SEPTA's Origin Story

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) --- Transportation in the Philadelphia area was a lot of parts and pieces, operated by private companies. But over a 13-year period it was starting to come together under a single banner - The Southeast Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA).

It wasn't without controversy. City interests argued that the suburbs with the least service would have the most clout.

The city was given veto power and the agency later expanded to include representatives of both parties in the state house and senate. There was still grumbling but less of it.

By this time in 1970 KYW was reporting the acquisition of the largest chunk, the Philadelphia Transportation Company.

The suburban Red Arrow division, the Norristown High Speed line and suburban bus routes would follow.