History
Route 56 was established in 1907 and originally ran from the intersection of West Hunting Park Avenue and Pulaski Avenue then down Pulaski to Erie where it ended at 2nd Street. In 1926, the western teminus was moved to its present location; in 1928, the eastern terminus was moved northeast to the Torresdale-Cottman Loop.
In March 1941, the line was re-equipped with PCC cars, which provided all trolley service until 1992.
Route 56 was suspended as a trolley in 1992, and replaced by bus service, along with Route 23. During 1994, fan trips were provided by Peter Witt 8534 & Kawasaki 9111 trolleys, revealing dedicated lanes on Erie, such as the right-of-way on Toronto's 512 St. Clair line. In 1997, SEPTA attempted to make this suspension permanent, but cancelled the proposal after public outcry from commuters. As of 2009, all buses are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and contain bicycle racks. "Night Owl" service is also available. Plans are under way to restore the line as light-rail service between 2011 and 2018.
Read more about this topic: SEPTA Route 56
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