SEPTA will construct a new electric power building, with new electrical equipment, and a new dedicated access road for the construction and maintenance of this new substation, which is currently located near the Jenkintown Regional Rail Station.

As a result of the 1993 Regional Railroad Division Traction Power System Study, SEPTA plans to replace all of the power substations on the former Reading Railroad System, including the one in Jenkintown.

The existing Jenkintown electric power building was constructed in the early 1930's. This facility plays a key role in providing electricity to power the SEPTA trains that run on the Doylestown, West Trenton, and Warminster lines. However, the equipment is outdated, and the electrified infrastructure is in need of technological enhancements.

A new building will be constructed and new equipment will be installed, while the old substation will remain in service for about one year as a backup during testing and adjustments to the new facility. There is also a need to construct a new road into the SEPTA facility, since current access is through PECO property.

Environmental issues and site accessibility will be addressed.
The area where work will be done has been an industrial site for years. The existing substation site and the proposed expansion site may have soil contamination. To address these environmental concerns, SEPTA's consultant HDR Engineering, Inc., will conduct analytical testing to determine soil quality and provide recommendations for mitigation.

Access to the existing facility is limited and incapable of supporting the construction activities of the project. The design and construction of a new access road will be an important component of the project. The permanent access road will support construction and provide future access to the traction power substation. SEPTA is committed to community outreach and timely communications.

SEPTA is committed to community outreach activities to address issues and concerns individuals might have with the project.

Meetings with elected officials will be conducted to gather input and identify other community resources. Stakeholders will be interviewed and kept informed about project developments and other areas of concern throughout the project. Community meetings will be used as a forum for community members to voice their concerns and ask questions. By working in conjunction with SEPTA's Community/ Government Affairs Department, project managers will develop an outreach program
to keep the community informed and respond to all concerns.

In addition to project updates, community meetings and a dedicated information hotline, several other communications methods will be used, among them; regular updates on SEPTA's website, email notifications, flyers, and information for local government and community websites.

Project schedule
Design and engineering for the Jenkintown Electric Power Project is expected to be completed in late 2010; construction information will be provided at a future date.

For more information, call the project information line at 800-515-7206.