Efforts to improve Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station reach new milestones as the city of Philadelphia prepares to host the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in July. Several new enhancements at the major transportation hub will soon greet daily passengers and the large number of convention-goers expected to converge on Philadelphia for the 4-day convention.
After being closed for renovations the last three months, the restrooms located in the retail-area of 30th Street Station and the restoration of the historic station entrance doors located on the east portico will be complete in mid-July. Both of these projects are part of a $56 million investment to upgrade Amtrak’s 3rd busiest station. The restrooms on the north side of the station have received a spruce-up and a splash of color thanks to the addition of new wall borders.
Furthermore, Amtrak has partnered with the University City District (UCD) to enhance the interior of the station. Beginning this week, thousands of visitors and customers traveling through 30th Street Station, will be greeted with “living walls” or vertical and horizontal planters placed throughout the station. The plants were installed and will be maintained by UCD’s Green City Works crew. For the station’s exterior, a separate project, utilizing patriotic red, white and blue lights will bathe the 29th Street facade beginning July 23.
“We’ve always seen 30th Street Station as more than a transportation hub; It is a destination in itself,” said Stephen Gardner, Amtrak Executive Vice President/Chief of Business Development. “These new enhancements along with the progress we’re making in the ongoing restoration project, show Amtrak’s commitment to working with the community to maintain this national historic landmark’s status as a first-class facility for customers.”
Amtrak also welcomes new vendor Milkhouse, famous for grilled cheese sandwiches and ice cream, on July 15 as one of several new food options for customers. In addition, for two weeks beginning July 18 through July 29, Amtrak hosts a Taste of Philly with kiosks in the main concourse selling local favorites including Philly Pretzel Factory Soft Pretzels, TastyKakes, Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews and Frank’s Soda.
Amtrak makes intercity travel to Philadelphia easy with downtown to downtown access from cities across the Northeast Corridor and beyond. 30th Street Station is minutes away from major convention venues and provides connections to SEPTA and New Jersey Transit commuter rail services and other local transportation options.
