Request for Information – Germantown Station, Philadelphia, Transit Oriented Communities Opportunity

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is requesting information on transit-oriented redevelopment of Germantown Station in Philadelphia, with RFI responses due by 3:00 p.m. EST on July 10, 2026. This is an informational solicitation preceding a future RFP and does not constitute a vendor selection or binding commitment.

SEPTA seeks developer input on mixed-use redevelopment of a primary 1.419-acre property at 120-128 East Chelten Avenue, with optional adjacent parcels including former rail bridges over East Armat Street and properties at 5547 Lena Street and portions of 5510–18 Bayton Street (approximately 0.817 additional acres). The envisioned scope includes ground-floor commercial space along East Chelten Avenue, upper-floor apartments targeting 35% of units at or below 50% area median income, enhanced pedestrian and cyclist station access, public open space utilizing inactive rail infrastructure, and stormwater management. The site is currently zoned CA-1 (auto-oriented commercial) with proposed remapping to CMX-3 (commercial mixed-use) to enable mid-rise, mixed-use development.

SEPTA requests responses addressing development concepts, team composition, market outlook, affordable housing feasibility, sustainable design approaches, financing strategies, implementation timelines, and partnership structures. The authority specifically seeks input on effective public-private partnership and ground lease arrangements, strategies for incorporating local, minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged firms in development and construction teams, and public funding sources and financing tools (such as Low-Income Housing Tax Credits) needed to achieve deep affordability. A 12-foot setback from station buildings and railroad facilities is required to maintain operations and maintenance access. Development must retain mature native trees where possible. An Indego bikeshare station is planned for the station entrance area.

SEPTA may schedule individual meetings with respondents at its Philadelphia headquarters or via teleconference. Responses should be submitted to Heather Casullo, Sr. Contract Administrator, at hcasullo@septa.org. SEPTA retains the right to use, reproduce, distribute, display, and create derivative works from any information submitted without compensation to respondents. SEPTA intends to work with the City of Philadelphia on the formal solicitation and zoning after completing this market-input phase.