SEPTA Moves to Upgrade Aging Railcars After String of Fiery Incidents

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Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has announced an additional $220 million in state aid to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) to help upgrade its aging electric railcars. The funding comes after a series of five fires this year involving the Silverliner IV passenger railcars, which are heavily used in SEPTA's regional rail fleet. The Federal Railroad Administration ordered SEPTA to take measures to prevent future fires after investigating the incidents. SEPTA has since completed federally mandated inspections and begun equipment upgrades on the affected railcars. However, riders have faced delays and crowded trains due to emergency inspections and reduced service. Shapiro emphasized the importance of maintaining a reliable mass transit system, citing its impact on the economy and communities. He also acknowledged the challenges SEPTA faces in securing adequate public funding, with a backlog of over $10 billion in upgrades. The Silverliner IV railcars, which date back to the 1970s, represent about two-thirds of SEPTA's regional rail fleet. The agency plans to replace them over the next decade, but Shapiro has stressed the need for more immediate action to ensure passenger safety. SEPTA riders can expect regional rail service to return to normal by mid-December, with the aid package also covering improvements to inspection and maintenance processes. The funding will help alleviate the financial burden on SEPTA and allow it to provide enhanced services for major events, including the FIFA World Cup and the 250th anniversary celebrations. The incident highlights the need for increased public funding for mass transit agencies, which are struggling with rising costs and declining ridership. SEPTA, one of the largest transit agencies in the country, carries over 800,000 daily riders on buses, trolleys, and rail.