Monday, August 19, 2013

30th Street Station to get $35 million in upgrades

Thanks to Amtrak and $35 million, upgrades to the nearly 100-year-old 30th Street Station will continue into next year.

Amtrak hopes the improvements will enhance pedestrian mobility in and around the facility.

“Thirtieth Street Station is an iconic fixture in Philadelphia,” said Stephen Gardner, Amtrak’s vice president of northeast corridor infrastructure and investment development. “As stewards of this national historic landmark, we are committed to maintaining its status as a first-class facility for passengers and further integrating the station into the vital University City neighborhood.”

The construction will temporarily close some entrances to the building and force the interim relocation of some services. Customers will be redirected by signs to alternate points, though there will be no disruption or alteration to train service.

The 30th Street Station is the third-busiest station in the Amtrak system and served more than 4 million passengers in fiscal year 2012-2013. The station also has connections with SEPTA, New Jersey Transit and other local transportation options.

The station’s west plaza renovation, which began last fall, is expected to be completed by Nov. 28. It is designed to improve vehicle traffic and pedestrian flow around the station and enhance lighting for better security and visibility. Work below ground on the parking deck and basement will continue through 2014 to fortify infrastructure and improve parking conditions.

Phase one of the multimillion-dollar exterior facade restoration is scheduled to begin later this month. A temporary canopy will be constructed to provide a safe and weather-proof area for pedestrians. This phase is scheduled to cost $2 million paid for by Amtrak funds.

Also, many elevators are scheduled to be replaced. The passenger elevators connecting train platforms with the main concourse, as well as elevators that take employees to the upper office towers, are scheduled to be replaced. Some of the equipment dates back to the 1930s. This part of the project is scheduled to cost $3 million paid for by Amtrak funds.

No comments:

Post a Comment