Structural defect found in Philly-area rail cars

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia-area transit agency says it has had to take about one-third of regional rail cars out of service because of a structural defect, but that shouldn’t reduce service during the July 4th holiday.

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority said Saturday that a “significant structural defect” was found on Silverliner V regional rail cars. So, all 120 of the cars — about one-third of the regional rail fleet — are currently out of service for inspection.

But the company says that shouldn’t “adversely impact” service through Monday, July 4th, since the remainder of the fleet can accommodate the weekend/holiday schedules.

Officials say “it is likely that this loss of vehicles will persist until repairs can be completed.” They say contingency service plans for regular weekday travel are being developed.