What is Trolley Modernization?

Trolley Modernization is a once in a generation opportunity to transform one of the nation’s largest trolley networks, delivering benefits across the region.

Trolleys have played a critical role in our region since the early 1900s. The current vehicles have served communities since the 1980s, but need to be replaced with modern, accessible vehicles and stations. SEPTA is transforming trolleys to meet the needs of riders today and tomorrow – that means easier to use and faster service for everyone.

Trolley Modernization includes:

New, longer vehicles that hold more passengers, and feature low floors and ramps, wider pathways, audio and visual messaging systems, and designated open space for people with wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, and shopping carts.

New on-street stations that will be well-marked, safe, and fully accessible and rebuilt existing stations that will be fully accessible with improved amenities.

Infrastructure and operational improvements to facilities, signals, and stations to make service faster and more reliable.

Proposed line extensions that will make it easier for riders to reach more destinations and connect to more SEPTA services, improve operations, and have more room for passenger and operator amenities.

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Trolley Modernization Goals

Goal # 1 : Accessible

Accessibility is about more than legal compliance—it is a universal design that removes 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. Trolley Modernization will transform mobility for our region by introducing accessible trolley vehicles, building accessible on-street stations, and making our existing stations accessible.

Goal # 2 : Fast

No one likes the uncertainty and frustration of stop-and-go service that results in unreliable travel times.  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.

Get Involved

SEPTA wants transit to be more useful to more people. To do that, we’ll need to hear from everyone – people who currently ride transit, people who used to ride, and people who have never ridden as well as operators, staff, and stakeholders. Sign up to be notified when there will be chances for you to hear more about the project and have your say.

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