Pop Up Metro Could Bring Battery-Powered Trains to Philadelphia’s Riverfront

Pop Up Metro may soon bring battery-electric train service to Philadelphia’s riverfront. Delaware River Waterfront Corp. is considering implementing the system along Columbus Boulevard’s existing railway tracks. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

How Pop Up Metro Could Transform Riverfront Transit?

Delaware River Waterfront Corp. is evaluating the feasibility of using battery-powered trains along Columbus Boulevard. The tracks, owned by the Philadelphia Belt Line Railroad, run parallel to the Delaware River.

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Karen Thompson, DRWC’s planning and policy director, stated that the final route remains uncertain. However, the proposed corridor spans approximately 1.2 miles from Race Street to Queen Street.

The Philadelphia Belt Line Railroad operates 6.5 miles of track and has additional trackage rights. These existing routes facilitate freight movement and could efficiently accommodate passenger rail services.

Pop Up Metro, a subsidiary of Railroad Development Corp., specializes in cost-effective rail transit solutions. The company provides refurbished battery-electric railcars, modular stations, and supporting infrastructure for urban transport.

The affordability of this system allows practical trials before committing to costly feasibility studies. This approach enables cities to test transit solutions with minimal financial risk and infrastructure investment.

Although several cities have studied Pop Up Metro’s model, no operational lease currently exists. Most recently, Iowa City explored the concept but faced feasibility-related delays.

Public Input and Next Steps for Pop Up Metro

Delaware River Waterfront Corp. launched a public survey to gauge interest in the potential service. The survey collects data on travel habits, accessibility, and waterfront visitation patterns.

Survey responses will influence future decisions, with the survey closing on February 10. Based on the results, DRWC will decide whether to proceed with further project development.

Enhancing transit options along Philadelphia’s riverfront remains a key DRWC objective, despite funding obstacles. The organization confirmed that Pop Up Metro approached them about a possible service partnership.

DRWC collaborates with federal and local agencies to evaluate project feasibility and financing strategies. Partnerships with the city, state, and Federal Railroad Administration could play a vital role.

Since planning remains in the early stages, no official cost estimates or timelines exist yet. However, discussions continue regarding feasibility, potential investment, and future transit expansion.

Source: www.trains.com

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