ARRA to fund SEPTA station expansion

On Monday, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) announced the start of a regional rail parking expansion project in Delaware County.

In an effort to address rider demand, SEPTA in partnership with the Elwyn Institute, will expand the parking facilities for commuters who use Elwyn (R3) Regional Rail Station.

The current parking lot has a capacity of 233 vehicles. Space for approximately 90 additional vehicles will be available in the lot adjacent to the station, increasing the number of parking spaces to more than 300. This includes spaces that will provide more convenient access for disabled riders in compliance with American Disability Act (ADA) guidelines. The project is being made possible by federal funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

The project, which consists of concrete work, grading, signage, electrical and paving, will create approximately 30 jobs for area workers from Ambler, Media, Chester, Philadelphia and Kennett Square, Pa.

The nearly $900,000 project is expected to be complete in the summer of 2010 and is one of several federally funded SEPTA projects slated for completion in Delaware County.