Amtrak and Partners Seek Master Plan for Philidelphia 30th Street Station Area
WILMINGTON, Del. Amtrak, in partnership with Drexel University and Brandywine Realty Trust, has taken the first formal step toward development of a comprehensive Master Plan for Philadelphia 30th Street Station and the surrounding area with the release of a professional services Request for Proposals (RFP). The objective of the Master Plan is to formulate a vision for 30th Street Station and the surrounding areas including the potential development of air rights above the rail yards. In addition to Amtrak, Drexel University and Brandywine Realty Trust, a Coordinating Committee made up of area stakeholders in the vicinity of 30th Street Station has been established to provide input and guide the master planning process. Committee participants include the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), City of Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania, CSX Corporation (CSXT), Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation, Schuylkill River Development Corporation and the University City District.
Amtrak Continues to Grow
The RFP is issued as demand for passenger rail service continues at record levels. In FY 2012, a record 31.2 million passengers chose Amtrak as their mode of travel, and forecasts predict a 59% increase in rail ridership and 41% increase in train volumes in Philadelphia by 2030. The Master Plan will identify commercial development opportunities in the precinct surrounding 30th Street Station, and develop improved connectivity between the station and the neighbouring community, including connections to the local, arterial, and interstate road network, pedestrian and bicycle, intercity bus and transit services.
In addition to considering adjoining planning and development efforts, community interests and state and regional planning initiatives among other factors, the endeavour will accommodate future Amtrak, NJ Transit and SEPTA ridership growth and evaluate all aspects of the passenger experience at 30th Street Station.
