[IMAGE]WayneJunctionFTA2-2.jpg[/IMAGE] On Thursday, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) was named the recipient of a $3.98 million federal grant for the renovation of the Wayne Junction Intermodal Facility. Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff joined Congressman Chaka Fattah and local officials in Philadelphia for the announcement.

"With gas prices reaching above four dollars per gallon in some areas, President Obama is committed to providing transit opportunities that help people avoid pain at the pump," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "The administration's investment in Wayne Junction will also do a better job connecting residents with jobs and economic opportunities throughout the region.”

Constructed at the turn of the 20th Century, the Wayne Junction Intermodal Facility, located in the historic Germantown/Nicetown community, has played a vital role in the development of the local community. The facility is now considered a major transit hub, connecting five regional rail lines, one trackless trolley route and two bus routes.

“As high gas prices take a bite out of family budgets, the Obama Administration will continue to work with communities to make sure commuters have affordable, convenient ways to get to work, school or the grocery store,” said Administrator Rogoff.  “That’s why we’re so pleased to partner with SEPTA to transform Wayne Junction into a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient accessible transit facility.”

The $3.98 million grant will go toward a $32 million project that includes power, signal and track upgrades, new elevators and required accommodations for persons with disabilities. It will also provide for construction and repair of platforms, tunnel and stairway restoration; improvements to various passenger amenities; and improved technology and painting.

This grant brings the total amount of monies the FTA has provided for the project to $7.4 million.