This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
5/16/2022
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority last week released a request for proposals for the replacement of its trolley fleet.
The RFP will begin the vehicle acquisition process with manufacturers, a major step of the agency's trolley modernization plan, SEPTA officials said in a press release.
The plan is part of SEPTA's capital program to transform the country's largest trolley network into an accessible, fast and easy-to-use system, they said. The agency aims to turn it into a system used for any type of trip, not just for work commutes.
The current fleet dates to the 1980s. The new vehicles will be fully accessible and have higher capacity, wider pathways, improved messaging systems and designated open space for people with wheelchairs and strollers.
Additionally, SEPTA is building new on-street stations and rebuilding underground stations to become more accessible. The transit agency will make other significant improvements to operations and infrastructure to make connections easier, officials said.
Funding comes from the fiscal-year 2023 Capital Budget and 12-Year Program.
SEPTA's eight trolley routes operate over 68 miles of track to connect Philadelphia and Delaware County with the region's two largest employment and health care centers.