Sunday, June 1 - Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Accessibility at the STC Summit 2008
Arriving by Train
If you are traveling by train to the conference, call +1-800-872-7245 (+1-800-USA-RAIL). That is the friendly advice from Amtrak. They can help you plan a comfortable train trip that considers all your needs. When you call this number, a service representative from Amtrak can help you book your trip, answer all your questions to the best of their ability, and give you peace of mind about your trip. Just remember to state that you need special assistance when placing your booking to get the personalized service to suit your particular needs.
Amtrak has a section devoted to information about travellers with disabilities called Services for People with Disabilities and Special Needs. The information includes details about station accessibility, wheelchair transport, and more.
Rail Service in Downtown Philadelphia with SEPTA
Amtrak uses the 30th Street Station in downtown Philadelphia. From there, you can switch to SEPTA (Philadelphia's bus and rail service) transportation to get to Market East Station at 11th and Filbert, one block away from the conference hotel, the Marriott. At present, a transfer from 30th Street Station to Market East Station costs USD 3.50 when ordered in advance, or USD 4.00 when purchased on site.
For more information about SEPTA's bus and rail services in the city, contact SEPTA Customer Service at +1 215-580-7800. Other phone numbers are 215-580-7145 for CCT (paratransit) services or TDD: +1 215-580-7712.
The SEPTA Web site has an Accessible SEPTA section that describes the accessibility of each station and how to get assistance. There are specific rules about how many personnel are permitted to assist you. Please read the information carefully for your particular needs.
There are reduced fares for people with disabilities, but these must be requested in advance.
Check with Amtrak or SEPTA for your particular travel plans if you are planning to use other stations. It is also a good idea to check the links or call the numbers listed here before you leave if you want the latest travel advisory.
The Market East Station and 30th Street Station are fully wheelchair accessible. Remember that STC has a scooter rental offer from Scootaround for attendees who want the convenience of wheels for getting around the convention. For more information, see the scooting around Philadelphia page in this conference accessibility guide.
From Market East to the Marriott
To get to the Marriott from Market East Station, you can go outside at 12th and Filbert and cross the street to the north entrance of the hotel.
You can also get to the hotel without going outside. From the Market East station, you go in the direction of the Gallery and go up two levels of escalators (or use the elevators). This brings you close to the double doors that lead to the Skybridge toward the Marriott. When you reach the Marriott, go down one level to reach the lobby to check in.
SEPTA staff and security guards are always around the station and are happy to point you in the right direction.