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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the PATCO Philadelphia Waterfront Transit Expansion Alternatives Analysis? This study is an Alternatives Analysis, or AA, which is the first phase of project development for major transit investments that seek federal funding from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The study consists of a purpose and needs analysis; the development of alternatives that address that need; technical work including ridership estimates, conceptual design, environmental screening and cost estimates for these alternatives; alternative evaluation; and selection of a preferred alternative. Detailed project information is compiled and submitted to the FTA at the conclusion of the AA with a request to proceed into the preliminary engineering phase of the project. Back to the Top
Why study a mass transit expansion in Philadelphia? The Philadelphia Waterfront is growing in importance as a residential community as well as an entertainment destination. The Philadelphia Waterfront is currently experiencing intense economic development activity and interest. Strengthening the transit linkages between the Philadelphia Waterfront and the region’s existing transportation assets will help support and encourage further investment within the City of Philadelphia and throughout the Delaware Valley.
What is the Federal Transit Administration (FTA)? FTA is one of 10 modal administrations within the U.S. Department of Transportation. They assist transit agencies nationwide with the implementation of public transportation, including passenger bus, rail and ferry systems. The federal government, through the FTA, provides financial assistance to develop new transit systems and improve, maintain and operate existing systems. The FTA oversees thousands of grants to hundreds of state and local transit providers.
What is PATCO (Port Authority Transit Corporation)? The Port Authority Transit Corporation (PATCO) is a subsidiary of the Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA). PATCO operates train service from Lindenwold, New Jersey to Center City Philadelphia. PATCO began providing service on February 15, 1969 and carried 21,200 people per day. Today more than 34,000 people rely on the system to get them to work, school, sporting events, shopping and anywhere else they need to go-quickly, easily and without the hassles of driving.
What is the DRPA (Delaware River Port Authority)? The Delaware River Port Authority of Pennsylvania and New Jersey is a regional transportation agency serving the people of Southeastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey. DRPA owns and operates the Benjamin Franklin, Walt Whitman, Commodore Barry, and Betsy Ross bridges. Through a subsidiary, the Port Authority Transit Corp., DRPA runs PATCO. DRPA also owns the RiverLink Ferry and the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal.
Who is participating in the project? At various points along the project, regional transportation providers and stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide input to the study team. Organizations that have been invited to participate include the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC), the Philadelphia City Planning Commission (PCPC), and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). The public is welcome to provide comments at any point in the process through the website and is encouraged to participate at Public Open Houses and other events to be scheduled.
How can I get more information on the project? We will be conducting Public Open Houses to keep people informed on the progress of this study. These meetings will be publicized in local papers and through other local media so please look for our announcements. Additional information can be found on our website www.ridepatco.org.
You just started by using this site to learn about the study and the important role of public involvement. We encourage you to attend the Public Open Houses that will be scheduled at various points throughout the study. We want your ideas and input. Please visit www.ridepatco.org for upcoming public meeting and event information along with the most current news on the project.
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