Major SEPTA Concourse Reopens After 6 Years

PHILADELPHIA — The underground walkway connecting two SEPTA stations by City Hall reopened Tuesday after six years.

South Broad Concourse — the walkway linking 15th St/City Hall and Walnut-Locust stations — was shut down in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The reopening came days before Philadelphia hosts a summer of major events, including World Cup matches and festivities for the 250th anniversary of the United States. But the reopening is permanent, according to SEPTA.

"Reopening the concourse will help reduce the pedestrian traffic at the street level when large crowds are expected during FIFA World Cup matches, the MLB All-Star Game, and America’s 250th birthday celebration," SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer said in a statement.

Starting Tuesday, the concourse will open 15 minutes after the first train leaves Fern Rock Transit Center and close a half-hour after the last train.

Concourse improvements include new cameras, bi-directional roto-gates, a cashier booth and better signage, SEPTA says.