SEPTA Signaling Updates

I just compiled a few bits of signaling news after my recent SEPTA Winter fan trip and figured I should share them while they were still fresh. The the headline is that the work to rebuild or change ARSENAL interlocking is already having a negative impact on signaling as the 20 exit signal on #4 track at the north end of ARSENAL has already been replaced with what I assume is a temporary color light mast exit signal.

I say temporary because a few feet to the north some new turnouts had been installed either for an Amtrak connection (unlikely) or some sort of relocation of at least one of the Airport Line ladders off the curve where they currently exist.  Anyway, the 20 auto and southbound ARSENAL home signals are accessible for photography and a definitely work a hike in combination with the PLs at CP-WALNUT north of the University City station.

I finally got out to The SEPTA Norristown Line terminus at Elm St in Norristown and saw that SEPTA put a fair amount of money into the interlocking making all the switches power operated as well as adding power details.

Southbound signals were of the Unilens type, despite the signals well known problems. 

CTBC transponders have made an appearance on the Routes 101 and 102 suburban trolleys.  The existing ABS signaling system is a two aspect type with fairly long blocks, however after the trouble SEPTA had and continues to have in their downtown trolley tunnel I'm surprised they didn't consider just switching to some sort of light rail CTC.  I suspect they want to tie in light preemption and other goodies.

Anyway, those are the major changes I noticed.  Hope you had a reasonable 2019 and let's all look forward to a better 2020.