Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) received a federal grant of $30.5 million that will allow the authority to upgrade its Cornwells Heights Station in Bensalem Township, Pa.
The project includes the final design and construction of new 600-foot high-level platforms and a new accessible pedestrian overpass with elevators that will increase accessibility and safety for SEPTA's Trenton Line and Amtrak's Keystone Service riders.
The funding comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Program, which the Federal Railroad Administration recently awarded $16.4 billion for 25 passenger rail projects along the Northeast Corridor. The investments will go towards upgrading tunnels, bridges, tracks, power systems, signals, stations and more, allowing for increased speeds, reduced travel time and a more reliable experience for riders.
“The infrastructure law continues to deliver results for Pennsylvanians,” said U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA). “Thanks to the law, SEPTA will be able to keep commuters safe, help them reach their destinations more quickly and ensure more riders, including those with disabilities, can access public transit. I led the effort to include accessible transit funding in the infrastructure law and I’ll keep working to make transportation more accessible for all Pennsylvanians.”
“Hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians rely on SEPTA every day. I’m proud to support expanded transit infrastructure that will strengthen service, help our environment and boost the local economy,” said U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA). “This $30.5 million for SEPTA is a significant investment and will help SEPTA deliver the high-quality transit system that Pennsylvanians deserve.”
SEPTA and Amtrak will match the funding with $11.9 million and $244,000, respectively. SEPTA will also provide $13.1 million of other federal funds to the project to round out the $55.9 million needed for the full project.
