The buses also traveled on Arch and Race streets, causing congestion in the neighborhood and souring the Chinatown community on the idea of bringing back the depot. A compromise was reached with the buses being redirected to Market Street to avoid the issue.
Philadelphia Parking Authority celebrates the grand opening of a new bus station at 1001 Filbert Street. The first day of operation for buses and passengers will be Friday, May 1.( Emma Lee/WHYY)
Giving riders dignity
City officials gathered at a ribbon-cutting for the facility Tuesday with its gleaming floors and clean bathrooms, something the previous incarnation of the facility didn’t have. Officials stressed that giving bus riders “dignity” was the key to the 10-year lease and renovation of the location.
Mayor Cherelle Parker said that buses are the most affordable travel option. She said rider experience needed to be on par with the train station and airport, especially this summer when the city is expected to be in the spotlight with the FIFA World Cup, Major League Baseball All-Star Game and America 250 events.
Rich Laser, outgoing head of the Philadelphia Parking Authority, said that the project was completed on time and on budget.
“This new transportation center gives inner-city bus riders what they deserve: a safe, clean and welcoming place,” he said. “For too long, riders didn’t have that. Now they do. Organized, well-run, and built with customers in mind.”
Mike Carroll, deputy managing director of the city’s Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems, said the goal is to give riders what they deserve.
“People who are visiting Philadelphia who are traveling to meet their loved ones, who are going on holiday going back from school deserve dignity,” he said.
A total of 20 bus carriers have signed up to use the facility, which has been leased for the next 10 years with a five-year option to extend.
City officials are still seeking a permanent replacement for the terminal, hoping to locate it closer to William H. Gray III 30th Street Station for convenient rail access.