Philly area commuter trains to gain a second level

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Commuters aboard crowded Philadelphia-area trains are going to have more places to sit.

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority says it’s buying 45 new multi-level train coaches.

SEPTA announced Thursday it will spend more than $137 million on the new rail cars, which feature seating on two levels. Transit officials say the new coaches will help accommodate a growing ridership.

The roomier rail cars will be produced in Springfield, Massachusetts, by a subsidiary of Chinese rail car manufacturer CRRC.

The first of the new coaches will be delivered in late 2019. SEPTA has an option to buy 10 additional rail cars.