PATCO Information
As the name suggests the PATCO Speedline, is indeed operated by PATCO but its ownership lies with Delaware River Port Authority. The line proves to be a convenient means of transportation for nearly 38,000 people everyday. This 22.4 km long line runs between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Camden Country, serving 13 stations along its way. It has been in operations since the 15th of February 1969 and has expanded since. As off now, it is one of the six metro systems in the USA that runs throughout the day, as well as the night (24 hours).
PATCO Map
Map of PATCO showing various lines and stations. Click on the map to enlarge it or Download map in PDF.
PATCO Speedline Route
The PATCO Speedline runs underground, on the surface as well as on elevated surfaces at different places. It begins underground from Philadelphia right up to Camden Country, crossing the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and emerging at New Jersey. From then onwards, the line runs on or above the surface and not below.
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 at: http://www.ridepatco.org/schedules/schedules.asp
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 at: http://www.ridepatco.org/schedules/fares.html
PATCO Parking
Seven out of the thirteen stations the PATCO Speedline serves, offer their passengers park and ride facilities by providing parking lots. The stations that do offer the services are: Ferry Avenue, Collingswood, Westmont, Haddonfield, Woodcrest, Ashland and Lindenwold.
PATCO Speedline Rules and Tips
The most important rule: buy a ticket. On being caught without one punishment can be as severe as an arrest. Secondly, smoking and drinking is prohibited. Another important rule is to never stand or sit or anything anywhere after the yellow danger line. Photography and videography is an artform which is not banned on the premises of the PATCO Speedline, however it is subject to some terms and conditions. Bicycles too, are allowed on the PATCO Speedline for no additional fee infact. However, the cyclist has to be sensitive to the discomfort caused by his cycle to other passengers and is under no circumstance allowed to ride the bicycle anywhere within the premises of PATCO Speedline.
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 at: http://www.ridepatco.org/travel/firsttime.html
PATCO Speedline Stations
The PATCO Speedline serves 13 stations in total. The name of these stations are as follows:
● 15-16th & Locust St.
● 12-13th & Locust St.
● 9-10th & Locust St.
● 8th & Market St,
● Cityhall
● Broadway
● Ferry Avenue
● Collingswood
● Westmont
● Haddonfield
● Woodcrest
● Ashland
● Lindenwold.