Route of the Week - Paoli/Thorndale Line
August 27, 2018
This week we'll be exploring SEPTA's Paoli/Thorndale Line. The Paoli/Thorndale Line is a Regional Rail Line that runs between Temple University to Thorndale. Until July 25, 2010, this line was known as the "R5."
Electrified service began on the Paoli/Thorndale Line on September 11, 1915. This made it the first local commuter and long-distance lines to be electrified using overhead catenary wires. The only other commuter line to be electrified at this time was the Long Island Rail Road in New York, but this used a third rail as opposed to overhead wires.
The Paoli/Thorndale Line is the busiest of SEPTA's 14 Regional Rail Lines. On a typical weekday, it carries 24,018 passengers and makes 88 trips between Temple University and Thorndale. This line is 37.9 miles long with 26 stations along the way, including Narberth (below), Exton, and Downingtown.
For those coming from the suburbs, the Paoli/Thorndale Line is a great way into Center City this weekend for the Made in America Festival. Just take it to Suburban Station and from there, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a short walk away. There will even be additional late night service to get you home after the festivities!
Whether you're headed out to the Main Line or into Center City, hop the Paoli/Thorndale Line and let SEPTA get you where you need to be!
