Federal Register #FRA-2026-2707

FRA seeks comment on SEPTA’s proposed West Chester Line signal-system changes

The Federal Railroad Administration is seeking public comment on SEPTA’s proposed signal-system changes on the West Chester Line; this is not a procurement opportunity. - Government buyer: Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), within the U.S. Department of Transportation. - Petitioner: Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), seeking approval to remove control point North Elwyn. - Proposed changes: Remove signals 2N and 4N and automatic block signals 1461 and 1462 between Schuylkill and Wawa interlockings on main tracks 1 and 2. - Stated rationale: SEPTA considers the control point operationally redundant and says its removal would simplify the signal system, reduce maintenance, and maintain or improve reliability. - OEMs and vendors: No product manufacturers or vendors are identified. SEPTA is the petitioner, not a supplier. - Procurement items: No products, services, part numbers, or quantities are requested.

Description

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) petitioned the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for approval to remove control point North Elwyn, including specified signals and automatic block signals, on the West Chester Line. SEPTA states that the control point is operationally redundant due to service limit changes and infrastructure configuration, and that its removal would simplify the signal system, reduce maintenance requirements, and maintain or improve reliability. FRA invited written comments on the petition by December 21, 2026, and stated it would consider later comments to the extent practicable.

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