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Released: 1/2/2026
DRPA & PATCO: Best of 2025
2025 was a year of steady progress and significant investment across DRPA’s bridges and PATCO’s transit system. From advancing major infrastructure projects and strengthening financial footing, to improving safety, reliability, and the customer experience, DRPA and PATCO remained focused on delivering for the people who rely on our bridges and transit system every day. The highlights below reflect the work of employees across the Authority and capture a year defined by responsibility, resilience, and continued commitment to the communities we serve.
1. No Toll Increase While Advancing Major Capital Projects
In 2025, DRPA demonstrated strong financial stewardship by holding toll rates steady while advancing a robust capital program. Strategic debt reduction, disciplined expense management, and a pay-as-you-go funding approach allowed the Authority to invest in critical infrastructure without placing additional burden on customers. That same discipline carried into the 2026 operating budget, which was reduced by more than 10 percent- further underscoring DRPA’s commitment to efficiency and long-term sustainability. These efforts were reinforced by a bond rating upgrade from S&P Global, validating confidence in the Authority’s financial strength and management practices.
2. Major Capital Projects Advanced Across the Authority
In 2025, DRPA advanced multiple large-scale capital projects, including the $220M Commodore Barry Bridge rehabilitation, the largest single project in Authority history, as well as preservation and improvement work on all four DRPA bridges. At the same time, PATCO progressed critical station platform and viaduct rehabilitation projects, reinforcing the Authority’s commitment to safety, reliability, and long-term asset preservation.
3. Engineering Expertise Recognized on a Global Stage
In July 2025, DRPA engineering expertise was showcased at the International Bridge Conference, a premier global forum for bridge owners and engineers. Staff presented on the installation of a main cable dehumidification system on the Ben Franklin Bridge, highlighting innovative preservation strategies and reinforcing DRPA’s role as a national leader in maintaining historic infrastructure.
4. Excellence Recognized Through Industry Awards and National Honors
Throughout 2025, DRPA and PATCO projects and staff received industry recognition for leadership, innovation, and impact. Honors included national recognition for women leaders in rail, awards for achieving 100% ADA compliance across PATCO stations, and acknowledgments celebrating leadership, mentorship, and community impact- reflecting the Authority’s commitment to excellence across all areas of operation.
5. Franklin Square Station Reopens, Strengthening PATCO Connectivity
PATCO’s Franklin Square Station reopened following a $29.3 million renovation, restoring service to a station closed for more than four decades. The project combined modern ADA-compliant upgrades with preserved historic design elements, expanding PATCO to 14 stations and improving access and connectivity for a system that serves approximately 5.6 million riders annually in a growing area of Philadelphia.
6. Improving Cleanliness and Safety Through Overnight Service Changes
PATCO launched overnight weekday service changes to enhance safety, cleanliness, and efficiency. The pilot program provided uninterrupted access for custodial and maintenance teams to perform deep cleaning and critical work, resulting in noticeably improved station conditions and positive rider feedback. These improvements were highlighted through “Suds Galore”, affectionately known by staff as the systemwide deep-cleaning initiative that made visible the scale of overnight maintenance and custodial work occurring across PATCO stations.
7. Enhanced Focus on Workforce Development
Workforce development remained a priority in 2025, highlighted by DRPA and PATCO’s Registered Apprenticeship Program and Summer Internship Program. Together, these initiatives provide hands-on training, mentorship, and early career exposure across skilled trades, engineering, operations, and professional roles, building strong talent pipelines and supporting the Authority’s long-term workforce needs.
8. Inspiring the Next Generation of Transportation Leaders
Throughout 2025, DRPA continued its Youth Exploration Program (YEP), welcoming students from across the region for hands-on learning experiences. In addition, the Authority participated in National Transit Career Day, reinforcing career awareness in engineering, transportation, and public safety while supporting long-term workforce development.
9. Knowledge Sharing and Safety Leadership on a National Stage
In 2025, DRPA and PATCO shared expertise and best practices through national training programs and industry forums. PATCO hosted a Federal Transit Administration rail safety training at its Lindenwold Yard, welcoming transit professionals from across the country. In addition, DRPA and PATCO staff participated in knowledge-sharing efforts through the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), the International Bridge Conference, the Eastern States Transportation Network (ESTN), and advanced emergency preparedness training at the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX). Together, these efforts reinforced the Authority’s commitment to collaboration, preparedness, and continuous improvement.
10. Regional Mobility Delivered During Major Events
PATCO played a key role in moving thousands of riders during major regional events in 2025, including the Philadelphia Eagles victory parade, supporting safe and reliable transit service during periods of increased demand. These efforts highlighted the system’s capacity, operational coordination, and readiness as the region prepares for a full slate of major events in 2026.
11. Engaged in the Community Throughout the Year
Throughout 2025, DRPA and PATCO employees actively supported community causes across the region by hosting holiday toy drives, raising funds and awareness for cancer research and other critical causes, and permitting charity bike rides and 5K races on Authority facilities. PATCO also connected directly with communities it serves through events like the Silver Sleigh Santa Train, participation in local events such as the Collingswood Christmad Parade, and hands-on efforts including Earth Day clean-ups. These efforts reflect the Authority’s commitment to being a strong community partner and giving back to the people and neighborhoods it serves year-round.
12. Continued Focus on Safety, Reliability, Resiliency, and Customer Experience
Across bridges and transit operations, DRPA and PATCO maintained a strong focus on safety, system reliability, resiliency, and customer experience in 2025. Targeted investments, operational improvements, and clear, timely communication supported consistent day-to-day service and reinforced the Authority’s responsibility to operate safe, dependable transportation infrastructure for the region.
2025 was a strong year for DRPA, and we’re excited about what’s ahead in 2026, including the 100th anniversary of the opening of the Ben Franklin Bridge and the 50th anniversary of the Betsy Ross Bridge, two milestones that reflect our legacy and our continued investment in the region’s future.
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