Philadelphia’s 30th Street Amtrak Station has officially kicked off a renovation project.
Amtrak officials launched this restorative affair together with federal, state, and local representatives this week at the location, signaling the start of what a press release deemed “A new era of passenger rail.”
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According to the press release as sent out by Amtrak itself, this makeover of William H. Gray III is the first of several phases of a plan born of a partnership between Brandywine Realty Trust, Drexel University, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, and, of course, Amtrak.
Estimated at a total of $550 million, this project entails modernizing and expanding both food and beverage options in the station, along with other retail offerings; improving operations; enhancing each customer’s experience; and doing a little makeover to the building’s infrastructure to make sure everything’s in good condition.
Work on elevators and escalators will also start this month, with additional construction continuing through 2027. Those heading to the station should expect the South Concourse to be closed for major construction from now through summer 2025.
“This large-scale restoration and renovation project will enhance the station’s functionality and improve the customer experience for Amtrak, SEPTA and NJ Transit customers, while preserving this iconic Philadelphia landmark for future generations,” said Amtrak Executive Vice President, Business Transformation and Chief Financial Officer, Tracie Winbigler, via the press release.
“Additionally, this station transformation will improve Market Street Plaza, expand retail offerings and provide other benefits to the local community.”