SEPTA Lancaster Avenue Track Renewal Project Construction Running from October 12th through November 15th, 2025

Beginning October 12th and expected to run through November 15th, SEPTA will perform the excavation, removal, and replacement of trackwork on Lancaster Avenue from 40th Street to east of Haverford Avenue. Lancaster Avenue will be closed between 40th Street and Brandywine Street for the duration of project, and the intersections of both Lancaster Avenue & 40th Street AND Lancaster Avenue & Haverford Avenue will be closed for the project’s duration.

Route T1 and Bus Routes 40 & 43 will be on detour throughout the project. The existing track structure will be replaced with new rail encased in a rubber boot based on updated track construction guidelines, and new trolley poles will be installed next to existing poles in advance of Trolley Modernization.

DETOUR DURING CONSTRUCTION

• Vehicular traffic and parking will be restricted in the work area, as track excavation will make conditions unsafe for travel. Local traffic will be permitted up to the construction zone.
• Shuttle buses wlil be substituted for Route T1, which will operate between Malvern Loop and 33rd & Market Street. Riders can continue their eastbound travel from 33rd & Market via a free interchange.
• Route 43 will utilize Fairmount Avenue, 37th Street, Mantua Avenue, 40th Street, Aspen Street, and Lancaster Avenue. Bus Route 40 will utilize Fairmount Avenue, 39th Street, Spring Garden Street, and 40th Street.
• During work hours, emergency vehicles will have uninterrupted access. Trash collection and other city utilities will need to coordinate with SEPTA personnel on-site for access.
• Crew members will do their best to accommodate business deliveries. Some vehicles may have limited access and drivers may have to park and carry parcels to a specific location
• Posted traffic detours will be erected and maintained in the construction zone, with motorists directed to use Wallace Street, 39th Street, Spring Garden Street, and 42nd Street

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Normal construction hours are – Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. However, there may be weekdays where crews work past 3:30 pm. Occasional weekend work may also be needed to maintain the project’s timeline
• Pedestrian access will be maintained during construction
• Excavating within the city’s aging infrastructure for this type of project, it is not uncommon that crews encounter underground water leaks. When this happens, the Philadelphia Water Department is immediately notified
• All other SEPTA subway-surface lines other than those noted will operate in the tunnel throughout the duration of this project
• Check septa.org for travel information or call Customer Service at 215-580-7800

BENEFITS

• Reduced vibrations and increased continuity with steel tie construction and increased bonding
• New and improved track components making for a smoother ride for trolleys and vehicular traffic
• New street surface including new concrete and asphalt paving and line painting once work is completed