Somerset Station closed until further notice due to safety, maintenance concerns

SEPTA on Sunday closed its Somerset Station in Kensington until further notice to address safety and maintenance concerns as the Market-Frankford stop falls into a dangerous state of disrepair.

"Both customers and employees have raised significant concerns about drug-related activity and non-riders blocking access to entrances, exits, passageways and stairs," SEPTA said in an official statement.

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"SEPTA is committed to completing necessary repair work and addressing these complex challenges so that the station can be reopened in a way that ensures the health and safety of SEPTA riders and workers."

Some nearby residents believe the closure is necessary to ensure the health and safety of riders. William Hollis, who frequents the area on his morning walk, said the inside of the station is deplorable. 

SEPTA says Somerset Station in Kensington will be closed until further notice to address safety and maintenance concerns.

"I'm sorry they closed it, but they had to do what they had to do," Hollis said. "The community and the people around this area understand why they're shutting down."

Those who opposed the shutdown held a rally on Tuesday near the station. A message from organizers said SEPTA union boss Willie Brown is concerned the closure will abandon riders. 

SEPTA has not announced a reopening date. Riders will now have to use the Allegheny or Huntington stations.

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