New Retro Trolley Cars Prove To Be Very Popular With Everyone
It has been less than a week since SEPTA put in service eight new retro 1940’s style trolley cars. They are all operating on the Route 15 line which runs from Port Richmond to West Philadelphia, along Girard Avenue. Since that time, people have been walking the streets with cameras and waiting at trolley stops with their phones ready to take photos of the new cars..
These trolley cars are a hit with the public. They cost about $500,000 each to retro fit and put back in service. According to SEPTA Spokesman John Golden, they hope to have two more in service by the end of the year.
ALEX LLOYD GROSS Photo-Delaware Valley News.com A 1940’s retro trolley car on Richmond Street.
When people post photos of old images of the city, on social media they have the old trolley cars and green buses. These trolley cars not only have the same body style, but the same paint scheme as well. The old “PTC” markings have been replaced by SEPTA markings but they are in the same font and design.
Currently the Route 15 trolley line is serviced by both buses and trolley cars. They seem to be ensure a schedule so that the trolley cars run every other . People have left their houses earlier to factor time to wait to see and ride these cars.
Inside they are spacious and have working air conditioners. They are clean and the seating configuration is reminiscent of days gone by. Since word got out that these new cars are in servicepeople have made the time to ride them. Kids on summer break and even people from outside Philadelphia.
Alex Lloyd Gross -Photo-Delaware Valey News.com Passengers ride the Route 15 trolley.
Nine year old Sebastien Berman was with his father Richard. They came from Media PA specifically to ride the trolley. This is nothing new for young Sebastien. Every Sunday, he is with his father riding different train lines on the transit system. Back in the day, children who took these trolleys to school used to put their ears to the metal poles that held wiring for the trolley, when the car was in sight, to hear it rumble down the street.
SEPTA discontinued the trolley service for several years. There was public outcry .They now brought them back and it seems to be the right move. Positive press positive public reaction and a good, clean ride.