SEPTA Restores Ardmore Station After 7-Year Upgrade

SEPTA's Ardmore station reopens with accessibility upgrades after 7-year renovation

Ardmore Station Opens After 7-Year Rebuild

SEPTA's Ardmore Regional Rail station reopened Monday after a renovation that stretched nearly seven years, transit officials said. The project at Lancaster and Anderson Avenues began in 2019 with a two-and-a-half-year timeline but faced delays from the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and unexpected structural issues. The station serves the Paoli/Thorndale line and Amtrak near Suburban Square.

Accessibility Upgrades Drive Renovation

The renovation is part of SEPTA's broader initiative to make aging transit centers accessible for all riders, according to the transit agency. The 150-year-old station building received a complete overhaul to meet modern accessibility standards while preserving its historic railroad heritage. Officials said the project represents a significant investment in regional rail infrastructure, though specific cost figures weren't released. Transit agencies across the region have prioritized accessibility improvements at older stations to comply with federal requirements and serve riders with mobility challenges.

New Features Improve Station Access

The renovated station includes wheelchair ramps, an elevator, new sidewalks, and rebuilt platforms, transit officials said. Fencing that surrounded the construction site has been removed, allowing passengers direct access without walking around the entire station perimeter. The parking lot behind Ardmore Music Hall has reopened for commuter use. Officials said the improvements address longstanding accessibility barriers at the historic station, though they didn't specify how many daily riders use the facility or provide ridership projections for the upgraded station.

Delays Extended Original Timeline

Construction that began in 2019 ultimately took nearly seven years instead of the planned two and a half, officials said. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted work schedules and material deliveries, while global supply chain issues delayed equipment and building materials. Crews also discovered unexpected structural problems in the old building that required additional repairs. The station officially reopened Monday, March 23, restoring full service at the location.

Riders Return to Upgraded Facility

Commuters on the Paoli/Thorndale line and Amtrak passengers can now use the fully accessible station for trips to and from Philadelphia. The renovated facility provides improved access for riders with disabilities and those using strollers or luggage. Officials said the upgrades will serve the community for decades to come. Riders can check Moovit for real-time train schedules and service updates at Ardmore station.