SEPTA to begin trolley track renewal project

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
image description

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) will conduct a track renewal project on a portion of its Route 15 trolley line from June 14-September 19, 2015, which was originally installed in the 1950s.

 

The project will take place on Girard Avenue from 3rd to 7th Streets and from just east of Frankford Avenue to Susquehanna Avenue. Track replacement is necessary because the street structure supporting the tracks has deteriorated due to weather, traffic and the age of the road surface. SEPTA will excavate and replace approximately 9,800 track feet and repave the track area. The new track will result in reduced sound, as the continuous welded rail will eliminate rail joints; reduced vibration because the new rail is incased in an insulated rubber boot and a smoother ride due to the new and improved track components.

Work includes street track renewal, grade crossing work, track and surface replacement and replacement of wood bridge ties/timbers and walkway; general bridge structure repairs and maintenance at Whiskey Run Bridge (between Springfield Mall and Paper Mill Rd. Stations), superstructure replacement and substructure repairs; replacement of overhead trolley wire, vegetation clearing, tree trimming and installation of new trolley wire support structures in select locations; the completion of grade crossing warning device improvements (in Collingdale) and start of construction for communications-based train control.

The project will progress in moving three-block sections. Work will take place first along the section of Girard Avenue between 3rd and 7th Streets and then move to the area just east of Frankford Avenue to Susquehanna Avenue.

This project is part of Rebuilding for the Future, a infrastructure, investment and revitalization program that tackles a $5-billion backlog of projects, including bridge replacements, substation overhauls and station improvements.

 

Tags: