Overview
Trolley Modernization is a once in a generation opportunity to transform one of the nation’s largest trolley networks, into an accessible, fast, and easy to use system. Trolley Modernization includes new, accessible vehicles that hold more passengers, new on-street stations that are well-marked, safe, and fully accessible, infrastructure and operational improvements to make service faster and more reliable, and proposed line extensions to make it easier for riders to reach more destinations.
Vision and Goals
SEPTA is pursuing a program of new vehicles and enhanced stations to modernize an aging and inaccessible rail system for all to make it:
Goal #1: Accessible
Accessibility is about more than legal compliance. Trolley Modernization will remove barriers to access for all riders—those with disabilities, seniors, small children and their families, new users, and anyone who needs a little more help to get where they are going.
Goal #2: Fast
Trolley Modernization will speed up travel by reducing time stuck in traffic and at red lights, making the boarding process quicker, and creating new stations that take advantage of these improvements.
Goal #3: Easy
Many trolley stops today are simple signs along the sidewalk with few amenities. Trolley Modernization will introduce new stations that make it easy to find, level boarding that makes it easy to get on, and consistent service that makes it easy to get where you are going.
Program Elements
SEPTA’s trolleys have served communities well since the 1980s, but need to be replaced with modern, accessible vehicles and stations. SEPTA is transforming the trolley system to meet the needs of riders today and tomorrow–that means accessible, faster, and easier to use service for everyone.
SEPTA is purchasing modern, fully ADA-compliant trolley vehicles to replace the Authority’s entire aging fleet of trolleys. New trolleys will be longer and have higher capacity to move more passengers. The fleet will feature low floors and ramps; wider pathways; audio and visual messaging systems to communicate upcoming stops and service changes; and designated open space for wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, and bicycles.
Ensuring accessible service takes both new, low-floor trolley vehicles and new fully Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant stations. That’s why we’re designing stations with fully accessible platforms, shelters, and modern amenities. New and rebuilt stations work with new trolleys, with easy, stairless boarding and customer-activated ramps.
At new on-street stations, riders will enjoy safe waiting areas separate from sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and cars. Stations on all eight trolley lines will include amenities like benches, shelters, and real-time arrival information.
Project Updates
| Project | Status |
|---|---|
| Route 36 [T5] Trolley Modernization | Design |
| Blossom at Bartram | Complete |
| 5100 Grays Maintenance Facility | Design |
| Trolley Vehicle Replacement | Design |
| 19th Street Station Improvements | Design |
| 37th Street Station Improvements | Design |
Past Events
December 15, 2022, 6:30 PM
Transit Talk | Trolley Modernization – Station Design
(Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
September 21, 2022, 6:30 PM
Transit Talk | Trolley Modernization – Station Design
(Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Quick Links
Building a Lifestyle Transit Network
As part of our 12-year capital investment program, we’re making stations accessible, acquiring new vehicles, investing in communications and upgrading services for our buses, Metro and rail to deliver on our vision of easy to use, frequent and integrated transit.
FAQ
Unanswered questions? Please see our FAQ page.