SEPTA to Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of 69th St. Terminal, Route 100 Service

May 7, 2008

PHILADELPHIA, PA - While it’s true you’re only able to reach the century mark once in a lifetime, SEPTA will be celebrating the monumental occasion twice on Saturday, May 10.

The dual commemoration is in recognition of 100 years of transportation service to and from 69th Street Terminal and the 100th anniversary of service on what is now known as the Route 100 Norristown High Speed Line.

SEPTA will provide free rides for passengers of the Route 100 during part of the day on Saturday and host a special centennial reception for the public at 69th Street Terminal.

During the early part of the 20th century, 69th Street Terminal played a pivotal role in merging transportation services between Philadelphia and its suburbs when it opened in 1907. Owned and operated by predecessors of SEPTA, the terminal served as the primary hub of three private rail lines, including rail service between 69th Street Terminal and Strafford by the Philadelphia and Western Railroad Company.

This route, which also began operations in 1907, later expanded and eventually evolved into SEPTA’s Route 100. To mark the occasion, SEPTA will provide free service for Route 100 passengers from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday. Regular SEPTA fares, however, will apply on all other modes of transportation during the entire service day.

An exhibit featuring photos from those early days to the present time will also be on display from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the terminal. The public is invited to participate in the festivities as longtime Philadelphia DJ Jerry Blavat will serve as emcee and provide musical entertainment.

Activities at the terminal will also include a magician, stilt walker, juggler and refreshments. In addition, Upper Darby Township will hold a sidewalk sale and parade from 69th & Walnut Streets to the terminal at 69th & Market Streets beginning at 10:45 a.m. The parade will include classic cars, the Shooting Stars and Miss Pennsylvania.

SEPTA General Manager Joseph Casey will be joined at the festivities by US Congressman Joe Sestak, State Representatives Mario J. Civera, Jr. and Greg S. Vitali as well as other elected officials and SEPTA Board member Jettie Newkirk. Blavat will also emcee the event.