Philadelphia City Commissioners – Election Warehouse – Philadelphia, PA

Election Logistics and Voter Services

The Philadelphia City Commissioners Election Warehouse is the central logistical hub for the city’s democratic process. Located in Northeast Philadelphia at 11311 Roosevelt Boulevard, this secure facility plays a dual role: it serves as the primary storage and maintenance center for the city’s voting machines, and it frequently operates as a Voter Service Center during election cycles. As the operational backbone for the City Commissioners—a bipartisan three-member board responsible for conducting elections—this facility ensures that thousands of voting machines are tested, sealed, and deployed accurately to polling places across the city. Beyond its logistical functions, the site is a critical access point for voters, offering in-person services that make participation in elections more accessible.

Voter Registration and Mail-In Ballots

During election periods, the Election Warehouse often functions as a Satellite Election Office (SEO). In this capacity, it provides a ”one-stop-shop” for voters. Residents can visit this location to register to vote, update their registration details, and apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot. Uniquely, voters can also receive their mail-in ballot, vote in a private booth on-site, and return it immediately, all in a single visit. This service is designed to alleviate pressure on polling places and provide flexibility for those who cannot vote on Election Day. Staff are available to assist with language interpretation and to answer questions regarding the complex PA election laws.

Ballot Drop Box and Security

A permanent, secure ballot drop box is typically installed at this location for the convenience of voters who wish to return their completed mail-in ballots without using the postal service. This drop box is under 24/7 video surveillance and is emptied daily by bipartisan teams of election staff. The facility itself is subject to high-level security protocols, particularly during the weeks surrounding an election. The perimeter is monitored, and access to the warehouse floor where ballots are processed or machines are stored is strictly controlled. Visitors entering the public service areas may be subject to screening to ensure the safety of election workers and the integrity of the voting materials.

• Voting Machine Storage: Secure housing and maintenance of Philadelphia’s ExpressVote XL machines.
• Mail-In Voting: On-site application, processing, and submission of mail-in ballots.
• Voter Registration: processing new registrations and updates to voter records.
• Election Integrity: Secure testing and auditing of election equipment.