NJ Transit and SEPTA milestones include the first Multilevel III commuter-rail vehicle from Alstom. They also include the opening of Ardmore Station on SEPTA’s Paoli/Thorndale Regional Rail Line.

NJ Transit receives first Multilevel III vehicle; SEPTA opens Ardmore
Photo: New Jersey Transit

NJ Transit and SEPTA milestones in new rolling stock

NJ Transit has taken delivery of the first Multilevel III commuter-rail vehicle from Alstom. It is the first unit in an order for 374 cars.

In a press release, NJ Transit officials said the double-deck fleet is intended to add capacity. It is also intended to improve reliability and increase passenger comfort. It will replace legacy single-level cars. Those cars have been in service for more than 40 years.

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In addition, the new vehicles are designed to travel up to 110 mph. That is up to 30 mph faster than the previous fleet. They also include USB charging ports in every row and digital signs showing upcoming stops.

The first vehicle delivered is a power car. Alstom developed it in close partnership with NJ Transit. It is intended to allow train consists to operate without locomotives. Alstom said the power cars include electric propulsion. They also include more than 100 seats.

Ardmore Station rebuild on the Paoli/Thorndale Regional Rail Line

Meanwhile, SEPTA held an April 10 ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Ardmore Station. The project is valued at $60.6 million. It sits on the Paoli/Thorndale Regional Rail Line. SEPTA said service to the new station began on March 23.

The station was rebuilt as part of SEPTA’s station accessibility program. The program, in part, calls for adding elevators, ramps and high-level platforms. It was last rebuilt in 1957 to replace the original building from the 1870s.

Ardmore is one of the most heavily traveled stations on the Paoli/Thorndale Line. It now features a new inbound building, an outbound shelter, and new lighting, signage and landscaping.

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