March 1, 2007
PHILADEPHIA, PA — SEPTA will commemorate 100 years of subway-elevated train service in Philadelphia with a special day of celebrations beginning with free rides for passengers on the Market-Frankford Line.
As a token of appreciation for its many loyal customers, SEPTA will provide free Market-Frankford Line train service between noon and 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 4.
The day will mark a century of service since the line originally opened on March 4, 1907, and operated on elevated tracks through West Philadelphia as the Market Street Subway-Elevated before continuing through Center City in an underground tunnel and ending at ferry terminals along Delaware Avenue.
More than 50 photos from those early days to the present time will be on display in a 12-panel exhibit as SEPTA hosts a special centennial reception from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at its 1234 Market Street headquarters as part of the celebrations.
The riding public is invited to attend the festivities where they can commemorate the event by signing one of 12 specially made oversized birthday cards or listen to music played by legendary DJ Jerry Blavat.
Children of all ages are welcome to participate in the celebrations, which will also include book and TV character Curious George, a coloring station, magician, balloon artist and juggler. A replica of the first El train, hand-made by SEPTA’s James Sparkman, will also be on display.
In addition, SEPTA’s new Customer Service and Sales Office will be open in the lobby from 1 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. to provide passengers with information about SEPTA’s services.
On Sunday, passengers will not be required to purchase a transfer for travel to and from the El between noon and 5 p.m. when service on the El will be free; however, regular SEPTA fares will apply on all other modes of transportation during the entire service day.
SEPTA General Manager Faye Moore will be joined at the celebration by State Representatives Harold James and James Roebuck, City Councilman Frank Rizzo, PA Deputy Secretary of Transportation Karen Rae, Federal Transportation Administration representatives James Simpson and Herman Shipman and Central City District President & CEO Paul R. Levy. Blavat will also act as special emcee at the event.
Councilman Rizzo will present SEPTA with a special resolution recognizing 100 years of subway-elevated service in Philadelphia. Rev. Dr. Olivia S. Henry, a 100-year-old Philadelphia resident, will also attend the reception.
