SEPTA Wissahickon Transportation Center
SEPTA recently unveiled its long-awaited Wissahickon Transportation Center in Manayunk, a major upgrade that’s six times larger than the original facility and expected to serve 5,000 riders a day. Located on Ridge Avenue near Main Street and steps from the Wissahickon Regional Rail Station, the new center improves connections, enhances the rider experience, and supports safer, more efficient bus operations.
As a subconsultant to McCormick Taylor Arora Engineers (Arora) provided Electrical and Fire Life Safety & Fire Protection Engineering Design services to support this transformative project.
Building Capacity for a Modern Transit Network
To accommodate increased service demands, SEPTA acquired a four-acre site and developed a new layout featuring a dedicated waiting area and a three-sided bus depot. The expanded footprint allowed SEPTA to:
- Increase service on 10 routes by up to 20%
- Enhance express service on Roosevelt Boulevard
- Improve transfer times and overall system reliability
SCOPE OF SERVICES INCLUDED:
Arora provided the following scope of design services:
Electrical: Arora anticipated that the incoming service to the site is salvageable and that the upgrade to the electrical system would include power distribution, convenience receptacles, and lighting for both the building interior and exterior. Site lighting was designed by the civil engineer and Arora provided circuiting for it within the building. Arora anticipated LED lighting technology were to be used throughout to reduce maintenance and energy usage.
Fire Alarm: Arora provided the conceptual designs for the Fire Alarm and Detection system that will consist of a control panel, annunciators, wire, and conduit. Arora did a layout of all devices including smoke detectors, pull stations, monitor and relay modules, horn, and strobes.
Fire Protection: Arora provided conceptual designs for the Fire Sprinkler system including diagrammatic piping layouts incoming fire service, head end equipment and connectivity to the Fire Alarm System.
Arora also attended project meetings to coordinate procedures, technical approach, review designs, and one site survey. The Design Team conducted on-site surveys of existing Electrical, Fire Protection and Special System conditions. The scheduled facility visit was coordinated in advance so that operations were not affected.
Supporting SEPTA’s Future
The Wissahickon Transportation Center strengthens SEPTA’s post-COVID recovery strategy and creates a safer, more reliable, and more connected hub for Philadelphia commuters. Arora is proud to contribute to a project that enhances mobility and improves everyday transit experiences across the region.
