Implementing rail passenger service between Philadelphia and Reading, Pennsylvania, would cost up to $818 million in capital expenses, a Pennsylvania Department of Transportation study concluded.
The study found the 12-station, 59-mile service could attract up to 6,400 passengers daily,
However, PennDOT said several significant issues must be addressed to determine the concept’s feasibility.
One of those is whether host railroad Norfolk Southern would be a “willing party” to negotiate access, improvements and fees.
NS tracks would be used between Reading and Norristown and are not electrified, a fact that could complicate equipment decisions.
The report said the existing SEPTA route between Norristown and Philadelphia is heavily used and might not be able to accommodate additional trains.
Additional studies are needed to make a detailed infrastucture and service feasibility study; a Norfolk Southern operational feasibility study; development of local support and funding; preparation of design and environmental documents; and completion of a preliminary memorandum of understanding between Norfolk Southern and SEPTA or whatever entity would be the project sponsor.
If funding can be arranged the service could be launched in 2030.
Tags: commuter trains, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Philadelphia, Reading Pennsylvania, SEPTA trains
akronrrclub.wordpress.com 
Leave a Reply