SEPTA is moving forward with significant accessibility improvements on its Broad Street Line, awarding a contract to Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. for the design and construction services at three key subway stations. This initiative will bring much-needed upgrades to Lombard-South, Ellsworth-Federal, and Chinatown Stations on the Broad Street Line and Broad-Ridge Spur, making them accessible to all riders, including those with disabilities.
These stations, built long before the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted, currently lack elevator access and are only reachable by stairs. SEPTA’s commitment to rectify this, particularly across the Broad Street Line and Market-Frankford Line, is being bolstered by federal infrastructure funding. This financial support is instrumental in enabling SEPTA to undertake these vital accessibility projects.
Pasquale T. Deon Sr., SEPTA Board Chairman, highlighted the strategic importance of this design contract. “Commencing design allows SEPTA to pursue competitive funding specifically for accessibility improvements at legacy rail stations,” he stated. He further emphasized SEPTA’s ongoing collaborations with state and local funding partners to maximize federal resources and address the Authority’s capital needs, ensuring these crucial upgrades can be realized.
The $5.793 million contract awarded to Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. marks a significant step in progressing the design phase for Lombard-South, Ellsworth-Federal, and Chinatown Stations to 100% completion. Upon finalizing the design plans, SEPTA will be able to proceed to the construction phase. The planned improvements are comprehensive, aiming to bring these stations into full ADA compliance and a state of good repair. Key upgrades include the installation of elevators, platform renovations to ensure smooth and safe access, enhanced signage, improved lighting, and modern security cameras. Waterproofing will also be addressed to maintain the structural integrity and longevity of the stations.
Leslie S. Richards, SEPTA General Manager and CEO, emphasized the central role of accessibility in SEPTA’s strategic vision. “Station accessibility is a core component of SEPTA Forward, the Authority’s Strategic Plan,” she affirmed. “We have made significant progress in upgrading our infrastructure, and we will continue to prioritize enhancements across the system to make SEPTA easier to use and more accessible to all.” This project underscores SEPTA’s dedication to creating a transit system that is inclusive and user-friendly for everyone in Philadelphia and the surrounding region.
SEPTA has placed a high priority on accessibility improvements for both the Market-Frankford Line and the Broad Street Line within its 12-Year Capital Program. Beyond the three Broad Street Line stations benefiting from this newly awarded contract, SEPTA is nearing completion on ADA upgrades at Susquehanna-Dauphin Station, with construction already underway at Tasker-Morris Station. Riders can anticipate further updates regarding timelines for accessibility work at other stations along the Broad Street and Market-Frankford Lines when SEPTA releases its updated capital budget and program in April.
For individuals seeking more detailed information about SEPTA’s ongoing initiatives and services, the official SEPTA website at www.septa.org serves as a comprehensive resource. Additionally, real-time updates and engagement can be found by following @SEPTA on Twitter, or through the convenient SEPTA mobile app.
