Philly has caught green fever. From Green2015 to Green City, Clean Waters, to green and stormwater improvements at schools and rec centers, the green movement has more than arrived. And late last month, SEPTA unveiled its first green roof with the completion of the $4M 33rd & Dauphin Bus Loop Improvement Project.

Renovated depot

The project provided a significant facelift for the loop, which serves over 2,000 riders daily, according to spokesperson Andrew Busch. In addition to the green roof, a stormwater management drainage system has also been installed. Not only did the project include green elements, but also elements of sustainability and public art. “Arches of Resurgence” is an installation by British-born artist Michael Morgan, and features brick arches that are designed to inspire hope and renewal, and link elements of nearby Fairmount Park with the community and a line from John Coltrane, the jazz legend who used to live a few blocks away. His historic house near 33rd & Oxford is now being restored.

Arches of Resurgence

Bricks from the loop that date back to 1901 were salvaged and reused. The improvements, which featured community input before they were made, also restored some of the old ornate cherub designs that run around the top of the structure. When it was first constructed over a hundred years ago, the facade was red brick. Over the years the portal had been painted and repainted. Before the revitalization project started last year, the portal was a shabby mustard yellow.

In the past

Other amenities for customers include a new bus canopy, passenger shelters, benches, enhanced lighting, trash cans and signs. Bike racks have also been installed, as have new plumbing, heating and ventilation systems. The main building also includes space for a retail tenant. The project was funded by a competitive grant from the Federal Transit Administration. Since it finished under budget, the remaining funds have been allocated for improvement projects at 23rd & Venango and 35th & Allegheny, which will start next year.

Congrats on the green, SEPTA.

–Lou Mancinelli