Real-Time Info, Powered Sustainably
SEPTA is piloting new solar-powered ePaper displays to bring riders clearer, more reliable service information right where they need it most: at the stop.
What Are ePaper Displays?
ePaper screens are low-power digital signs that clearly display transit information using high contrast, easy-to-read technology that works in all lighting conditions. Unlike traditional screens, ePaper doesn’t glow or use constant power. Instead, it reflects light the way paper does, making it easy to read in bright sun, shade or at night with minimal lighting.
The displays consume very little energy and can operate on solar power—perfect for stops and stations where infrastructure and access to power are limited.
For SEPTA, that means:
- Real-time arrival info at bus stops
- Automated service alerts
- Schedules that stay updated without manual replacement
- Sustainable installation with minimal infrastructure needs
Why We’re Introducing Them
SEPTA has consistently heard from riders that better access to real-time arrival information is a priority – including during its multi-year Bus Revolution public engagement process. We are committed to improving the customer experience across our system. These displays allow us to deliver up-to-date schedules, service alerts and real-time arrival information, all while supporting our sustainability goals.
Key Features & Benefits
✔ Real-Time Service Information
Stay informed with live arrival times and service updates without needing a smartphone. Arrival time is shown as a countdown – For example, “Arriving in 5 minutes.”
✔ Solar-Powered & Energy Efficient
Low power technology means installations can be made at more locations without major electrical work.
✔ High Visibility, Day or Night
Readable in bright sunlight, low light or anything in between.
✔ Accessible by Design
Large text, high contrast, and ADA-informed layout support riders of all abilities. Devices deployed in our network will include a text-to-speech feature for accessible audio announcements.
✔ Resilient & Weatherproof
Built to handle outdoor conditions across the system.
A Collaborative, Rider-Centered Approach
The ePaper pilot is the product of a cross-functional project team at SEPTA, bringing together expertise in customer experience, technology, accessibility, sustainability and operations. The team’s approach was to look at every dimension of the rider experience:
Location selection: Devices are being deployed at stops and stations with no existing digital signage options, ensuring riders who have historically had the least access to real-time information see the greatest benefit.
Display clarity: The ePaper format was chosen for its high legibility across a range of lighting conditions, delivering clean, easy-to-read service information at a glance that reflects system-wide wayfinding standards.
Accessibility: Each device is equipped with a text-to-speech button, enabling blind and low-vision riders to access the same real-time service information as all other customers.
Sustainability: The devices are solar-powered, supporting SEPTA’s broader environmental goals while minimizing infrastructure requirements for deployment at locations that may lack ready access to power.
Program Specifics
SEPTA is piloting 10 units to be installed by the end of May, to support our daily riders as well as first time visitors to our region.
Location studies are underway. These test locations help us evaluate durability, visibility, placement needs, and rider feedback so we can plan for the future of the program. Be sure to give us your feedback on where you would like us to install ePaper displays! (See Feedback info below)
Once installed, the screens will include information for all routes serviced at a stop – arrival predictions, alerts, scheduled service disruptions, emergency notifications and also a survey gathering feedback about the devices.
We Want Your Feedback
Help us decide locations for ePaper displays! SEPTA invites riders to share their insights about the stops, stations and routes that would benefit most from digital real-time displays. Your feedback helps us prioritize future installations across the network.