Gov. Shapiro OKs $220M for SEPTA to complete rail safety repairs

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro yesterday authorized nearly $220 million to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) to complete urgent safety upgrades, restore full Regional Rail service and ensure compliance with federal safety orders.

The funds will be used to complete safety repairs to over 200 Silverliner IV rail cars and upgrade trolley infrastructure, according to press releases from SEPTA and the governor's office.

"These funds are going to make a significant difference in our efforts to overcome the current Regional Rail crisis and trolley tunnel shutdown and prevent problems moving forward," SEPTA officials said.

Shapiro made the funding available after the Federal Railroad Administration and the Federal Transit Administration recently ordered SEPTA to make emergency repairs to the Silverliner rail cars and the trolley's catenary system.

“Nearly 800,000 Pennsylvanians rely on SEPTA every single day — to get to school, to work, to medical appointments, and wherever else they need to go safely and reliably,” said Shapiro. “My administration is stepping up once again to provide SEPTA with the funding it needs to complete critical repairs, meet federal safety requirements, and restore full service — but we need a long-term solution."

Shapiro authorized the funds after state lawmakers did not advance legislation to provide additional recurring revenue for mass transit agencies.

Citing five instances of fire or other thermal-related emergencies on the rail cars this year, the FRA ordered SEPTA on Oct. 1 to take 14 safety-related steps to prevent the risk of fire and thermal emergencies. The list included suspending the entire 223-car Silverliner IV fleet until each car underwent inspection. The National Transportation Safety Board also recommended SEPTA suspend the fleet.