SEPTA’s etiquette reminders making inroads with riders

Cursing. Blocking the front aisle. Taking up two seats.

SEPTA launched an ad campaign in September aimed at cracking down on such conduct.

The advertisements are plastered on buses, trains and trolleys throughout the city, and they’re pretty blunt. One reads, “Dude It’s Rude … Watch Your Language.” Another: “Dude It’s Rude … Two Seats, Really?”

So far, the messaging has been a success, said Kristin Geiger, a SEPTA spokeswoman.

Geiger said the agency has received fewer complaints about poor etiquette since the ads launched. She also said SEPTA has gotten positive feedback from riders about the campaign.

“The fact that this program is sparking positive conversation about behaviors that have seemed to bother customers for some time is definitely an indication that the program is working,” said Geiger.

SEPTA commuter Samantha Perez, a resident of the city’s Frankford section, said the advertisements have the right tone for confronting inconsiderate passengers.

“You be nice to them, and they just look at you like you’re crazy,” said Perez. “But if you raise your voice and be more aggressive, then they take notice … I think it’s a great idea.”

New York City is planning to launch its own etiquette campaign next month that is similar in tone to Philadelphia’s. According to the New York  Times, one poster will read, “Dude … Stop the Spread, Please,” referring to passengers who take up two seats.