SEPTA is set to cancel several Regional Rail trips on Tuesday as it continues crucial safety inspections on its Silverliner IV fleet, which has been in the spotlight following multiple fires that have raised concerns about their reliability. The transit agency has received a two-week extension from the Federal Railroad Administration to complete the inspections of all 223 Silverliner IV railcars, with a deadline now set for Friday.
Passengers on the Airport, Fox Chase, and Chestnut Hill West lines will face disruptions due to the additional cancellations. Key AM peak hour trains that are to be canceled include 9411, 412, 425, 802, 809, and 814. Later in the day, more trains are also expected to be affected, including 9426, 9435, 436, and 473, among others.
Commuters have reported significant inconveniences as they navigate these changes. Mark Castillo, a local traveler, shared his frustration, stating that he had to alter his travel plans dramatically. “What I’m seeing here is my train is canceled. My 205 is canceled. I might have to jump on the Doylestown and walk from there,” he mentioned. Similarly, Darrell Williams, a regular rider, has been adjusting his schedule to avoid getting stranded, leaving early to ensure he arrives on time.
On the safety front, as of Monday, SEPTA had completed 193 inspections, still working diligently to meet the impending deadline set for Nov. 14. SEPTA spokesperson Andrew Busch acknowledged the hardships faced by commuters, stating, “Monday was a very difficult day for our customers, and we’re working very hard to get it at least a little bit better moving ahead.”
For the most current updates, riders are encouraged to check SEPTA’s official website for alerts. The ongoing inspections are a vital step in ensuring passenger safety and restoring confidence in the transit system, showcasing SEPTA’s commitment to addressing safety concerns.