Line of the Week: 101
March 15, 2021
This week we are exploring one of SEPTA’s Suburban Trolley Lines, the 101. The 101 travels between 69th Street Transportation Center and downtown Media. This 5.3 mile trolley line shares tracks with the 102 through Drexel Hill Junction and then splits off to begin its own route to Media.
On a typical weekday, the 101 travels 1,204 miles. This line connects with the Market-Frankford Line, the Norristown High Speed Line, and 18 different bus routes at 69th Street Transportation Center. It also connects with three other SEPTA bus routes at the Springfield Mall, one of Delaware County’s premier shopping destinations.
The 101, which is also known as the Media Line, was originally built by the Philadelphia and West Chester Traction Company in March of 1913 and is one of the remaining Red Arrow Trolley Lines. The 101 uses Kawasaki Heavy Industry Rolling Stock Company K cars; similar to the one’s used on the Subway-Surface Trolleys. However, the 101 Trolley cars are double-ended and use pantograph instead of trolley poles.
If you're planning on riding - there are a few things you don't want to forget.
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You'll want to remember your SEPTA Key! This is your "key" to not just the 101, but to all of SEPTA! If you're using your SEPTA Key, fare will be $2, your first transfer will be free and your second transfer will only be $1. Not only that, but children under the age of 12 ride free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult! And now, you can buy a Three Day Convenience Pass which is ideal for individuals who travel on SEPTA less than 5 days a week and visitors and tourists enjoying a multiple day stay in the Philadelphia area. The cost is $18 and it's good for 24 trips over 72 consecutive hours. Time starts with your first tap. It is meant for one rider. You can read up about fares here. And if you've never ridden the trolley before, check out this informative video on How to Ride and check out our Guide to Ride!
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Don't forget your mask! This isn't just to keep you safe, it's to keep everyone who rides SEPTA safe! Make sure your mask is covering both your mouth and your nose.
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And finally - don't forget to keep social distance!
So if you're headed to Media, Upper Darby, or anywhere in between - hop the 101 and let SEPTA be your ride!
