The work includes civil works, track switch replacement and upgrades to the existing signalling system including installation, testing, and commissioning. The new system will provide centralised supervision and scheduling from Septa's integrated control centre and will increase the lines' safety and performance.

The Sharon Hills lines consist of the 13.8km Media - 69th Street Line 101, and the 8.5km Sharon Hill - 69th Street Line 102, which share infrastructure between Drexel Hill Junction and 69th street.

Following decades of under investment, Septa is currently engaged in a $US 2.3bn five-year capital project funding programme as it attempts to repair ageing infrastructure and improve capacity across its metro, suburban and light rail networks. Earlier this week it confirmed an order with Siemens for 13 ACS-64 electric locomotives for commuter services. It is also working with Ansaldo STS to install Positive Train Control on its 13-line commuter rail network.

For more on Septa's plans see the July 2014 edition of IRJ, p26, or click here.