Development of preliminary engineering designs for sidewalk projects that improve access to transit stops within to and from high poverty census tracts

The Federal Transit Administration awarded the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) $500,000 on August 4, 2026, under the Metropolitan Transportation Planning and State and Non-Metropolitan Planning and Research program (CFDA 20.505) to develop preliminary engineering designs for sidewalk projects that improve access to transit stops within and from high-poverty census tracts in the Philadelphia region.

SEPTA, in coordination with the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC), will work with local partners to build community support and assess project feasibility, then contract with engineers to deliver shovel-ready designs that local partners can leverage for construction funding. The designs will improve site conditions at each location and include features such as new sidewalks, accessibility enhancements, and lighting.

Performance of work occurs in Pennsylvania, with an ultimate completion date of December 30, 2027. The assistance type is a Project Grant. No sub-recipients are identified for this award.

Activities

Dvrpc in coordination with septa will work with local partners to build support and assess feasibility then contract with engineers to provide shovel ready designs which local partners can leverage for construction funds.

Expected outcomes

The designs will improve overall site conditions at each location and include features like new sidewalks accessibility enhancements and/or lighting.

Intended beneficiaries

Provide transportation services to residents/travelers in the philadelphia PA region.