PATCO (Port Authority Transit Corporation) — Map, Lines, Route, Hours, Tickets

PATCO Information

As the name suggests, the PATCO Speedline is operated by PATCO, but owned by the Delaware River Port Authority. The line provides a convenient means of transport for nearly 38,000 people every day. This 22.4 km long line runs between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Camden Country, serving 13 stations along the way. It has been in operation since 15 February 1969 and has been extended ever since. At present, it is one of the six metro systems in the United States that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

PATCO Map

Map of PATCO showing different lines and stations. Click on the map to enlarge it or download the PATCO map in PDF format.

PATCO Speedline Route

The PATCO Speedline runs underground, on the surface and on elevated surfaces at various points. It starts underground from Philadelphia to Camden Country, crosses the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and emerges into New Jersey. From then on, the line runs on or above the surface rather than underground.

PATCO Hours

The trains on the PATCO Speedline run for 24 hours a day, on all 7 days of the week. However, it is the frequency of the trains that differ according to the day and time of the day as well. During the morning peak hours on weekdays, trains have a headway of just 4 minutes, which increases to nearly 12 minutes at midday hours. The frequency of trains on Saturdays and Sundays a 20 minute and 30 minute time interval, respectively.

For more information on the timings,frequency and schedule of trains, you can visit the official website.

PATCO Fares and Tickets

The fares on PATCO Speedline are distance based. Tickets can be purchased with cash payment at the vending machines. One way tickets to Philadelphia from Lindenwold, Ashland and Woodcrest cost $3.00, while a round trip costs $6.00. One way trip from Haddonfield, Westmont and Collingswood to Philadelphia costs $2.60 and a round trip costs $5.20. One way journey from any Philadelphia station to any Philadelphia station costs $1.40, while a round trip is for $2.80. One way trip from any New Jersey station (except between Broadway and City Hall) to a any New Jersey station costs $1.60, while a round trip is for $3.20.

Frequent travelers can use Freedom Cards which are smart cards and can be purchased for $5 at any vending machine. These can be loaded for a minimum amount of $30.

Reduced fare program provides discounts to senior citizens above 65 years of age, people with disabilities and Medicare card holders, with a card called RFP Freedom card. The PATCO fare for them during off peak hours is $0.70, which is half of the lowest PATCO fare. These discounts are valid all day on weekends and on weekdays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm to 6:00 am. Children less than five years of age can travel free when accompanied by a fare paying adult.

For more information on the fares, tickets and cards available, you can visit the official website.

PATCO Parking

Seven of the thirteen stations served by the PATCO Speedline offer Park & Ride facilities to their passengers by providing car parking. The stations that offer this service are Ferry Avenue, Collingswood, Westmont, Haddonfield, Woodcrest, Ashland and Lindenwold.

PATCO Speedline Rules and Tips

The most important rule is to buy a ticket. If you are caught without one, the penalty can be as severe as an arrest. Secondly, smoking and drinking are forbidden. Another important rule is never to stand or sit anywhere behind the yellow danger line. Photographing and videotaping is an art form that is not prohibited on the PATCO Speedline premises, but it is subject to certain conditions. Bicycles are also allowed on the PATCO Speedline at no extra charge. However, the cyclist must be sensitive to the inconvenience caused to other passengers by his/her bicycle and is not permitted to ride the bicycle anywhere within the PATCO Speedline premises.

There are a few more things that could be useful for those of you travelling on the PATCO Speedline. To view this, you can visit the official website.