SEPTA Mainline Duct Bank Relocation

Project Overview

SEPTA is proposing the temporary relocation of power and signal cables in order to replace the existing “ductbank” between the 20th Street portal and the Schuylkill River Bridge, which was constructed in 1930 as part of the elevated rail line connecting the Pennsylvania Railroad’s Suburban Station to 30th Street Station.

The existing duct bank is severely deteriorated and needs to be replaced to avoid impacts to SEPTA operations. Temporary relocation of the cables will also allow for additional planned SEPTA projects along the corridor without disturbing service to the cables. Within the project area, the existing ductbank consists of a rectangular concrete encasement containing traction power, signal, and signal power cables routed along the southern edge of the SEPTA mainline corridor (mainline) from the portal at 20th Street to the Schuylkill River bridge. The mainline and ductbank cross over 21st Street, 22nd Street, 23rd Street, and the CSX Transportation tracks. Two six-span viaducts carry the mainline and ductbank from 22nd Street to 23rd Street, and from 23rd Street over the CSX Transportation tracks. The duct bank then continues on top of the deck of the 1930 Paul Philippe Cret-designed Schuylkill River Bridge.

Envision is providing professional cost estimating and CPM scheduling services for SEPTA’s Mainline Duct Bank Relocation Project.