Plans to reopen a refurbished Greyhound bus station at its former location in Center City, Philadelphia, are proceeding, with a targeted opening in May.
According to WHYY, the bus station will occupy the former Greyhound terminal near 11th and Filbert streets, which will be completely overhauled at a cost of between $1.7 to $2 million. Rich Lazer, head of the Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA), said the organization is on track to meet a May 1 opening deadline.
“Our folks are in there. The internal demolition is already completed. So now it’s going to be putting it back together,” he said during a news conference held on Tuesday, Jan. 13.
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Planned improvements include new lighting, landscaping, a mural, and bathrooms to boost passenger comfort and safety. A taxi and shared-ride lane will be established outside the building under PPA oversight, and bus access will shift from Arch Street to Market Street to reduce diesel traffic through Chinatown.
“Bus transportation is the most affordable transportation. It is not supposed to be any less comfortable and aesthetically appealing and ensures that riders have a very good experience,” Parker added during the news conference.
According to WHYY, a 10-year operations deal will govern the Filbert Street terminal. At the same time, the city is pursuing a permanent intermodal solution, with consideration given to proximity to the 30th Street Station for easier Amtrak connections.