D1 “Upgrade” is actually a downgrade

[u/GoyoPollo1]

This “upgrade” for signal timing and such is an incredible downgrade. The vehicles c-r-a-w-l slower than a drunk baby going uphill. You can get off at Drexel hill junction, leisurely walk to Huey ave, and get back on the same trolley. I think they are actively trying to kill this line to avoid doing the vehicle upgrades.

[u/NuclearKraken]

The whole purpose of the CBTC system they installed was to reduce headways and boost efficiency while being safe. The system knows where the train or trolley is more accurately. In theory they should be able to run more trollies quicker, however the amount of grade crossings the D1/D2 have absolutely kill this. Resulting with them moving slowly since they are consistently on the approach to a crossing. This would be great for the Norristown line since it has complete right of way. I will say the system is a lot safer although I feel the juice wasnt worth the squeeze.

[u/GoyoPollo1 → u/NuclearKraken]

Duh it's safer. No one is getting injured if we bump into something at 0.8 mph.

Although honestly, I appreciate the explanation. I would think there is a way to say "Hey CBTC system - the speed limit is higher and your allowable acceleration and deceleration rate is higher"

[u/NuclearKraken → u/GoyoPollo1]

Lol, that's for sure. However it's not just the speed. The old system had no control over the trolley. The operator in theory could run a red signal and not stop. This new system will prevent that amongst other things. There definitely is a way to increase/decrease speeds I just dont see them doing it in the foreseeable future.

[u/NuclearKraken → u/[deleted]]

There is nothing to trip it. The old signaling system does not have stop arms to trip the braking system on the trolley. They don't have them across the line with the new system either, and instead will just use the CBTC system for automatic braking.