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Bridge Track Construction Information

What you need to know

PATCO has adopted a new train schedule for January, February and March. The new schedule allows construction crews to close one track over the Benjamin Franklin Bridge from 11 a.m. on Friday until 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday. 

Because PATCO will be running trains across the bridge on one track instead of two, the new schedule includes 30-minute gaps in rush-hour service on Fridays, weekends and Mondays.

The one-track closures are needed to accommodate a two-year, $103 million track rehabilitation project on the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

What this means to passengers:

Rush hour commuters accustomed to waiting on a PATCO station platform for the next train could end up standing as long as 30 minutes. 
Passengers who want to avoid long waits on the platform are advised to consult the new PATCO schedule, select a convenient departure time and arrive on the platform at least five minutes before that time.
Printed timetables are available in PATCO station lobbies and online.

The first train or two following a scheduled gap in service could be crowded and is likely to become more crowded as it approaches its terminal destination.
Unfortunately, rush-hour trains will be crowded when one of the bridge tracks is closed. A scarcity of available seats will force many passengers to travel standing.PATCO regrets any inconvenience or discomfort caused by car crowding and thanks customers for their patience during bridge track rehabilitation. 

Most rush-hour traffic moves west (toward Philadelphia) in the morning and east (toward Lindenwold) in the evening. Passengers whose rush-hour trips take them in the opposite direction – east in the morning, west in the early evening – will see some empty trains running past them. PATCO values all of its customers and is not neglecting the needs of counter-commuters. We’re simply working to move all passengers through the PATCO system in the most efficient manner possible under the circumstances.
Counter-commuters who want to avoid long waits on the platform are advised to consult the new PATCO schedule, select a convenient departure time and arrive on the platform at least five minutes before that time.
Printed timetables are available in PATCO station lobbies and online. 

During times when trains are scheduled to cross the Benjamin Franklin Bridge on one track, mechanical failures or track obstructions could delay trains longer than when both bridge tracks are open.
Passengers are advised to give themselves more commuting time during Friday’s evening rush hour and Monday’s morning and evening rush hours – regardless of the direction in which they are traveling.

The Benjamin Franklin Bridge track rehabilitation project is expected to last for two years. During the project, train schedules will change several times and will include multiple weeks when one bridge track is closed at all times.
PATCO will advise customers of schedule changes before they occur. Customers can avoid or mitigate travel delays by consulting PATCO train timetables.

Passengers with questions, concerns or suggestions may contact PATCO customer service by clicking here.

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