Grant to help plan Reading passenger train service redevelopment

A state grant from gaming revenue could help bring the city of Reading a step closer to bringing back passenger rail service. 

The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance said it has been awarded $142, 346 for its Franklin Street Transit-Oriented Development Strategic Planning Process.  

The money is coming from Category 4 licensed gaming revenues.  

“We are thrilled to receive these funds as we continue to work with our public and private sector partners to lay the groundwork for restoration of passenger rail service to the City and County,” said Jim Gerlach, president and CEO of the GRCA. “And we especially appreciate the great leadership of Sen. Judy Schwank and her State House colleagues in supporting this initiative. They fully understand the importance of rail restoration and the monumental economic growth opportunities it presents.”  

In addition to Sen. Schwank’s support, the project garnered support from Rep. Manny Guzman, Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and Rep. Mark Rozzi, who all represent parts of Reading.  

The focus of the Franklin Street Transit-Oriented Development Strategic Plan is to formulate the best and most appropriate course of action to support the redevelopment and revitalization of residential, commercial and industrial properties within the neighborhoods adjacent to the train station.  

This funding will enable the city of Reading to properly plan for future revitalization and growth.  

The GRCA said the re-establishment of an intercity passenger rail system has the potential to bring over $1.4 billion in income generation, over $1 billion economic development, nearly $1 billion in tax revenue, and 28,000 person years of work. 

The Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority is also in the process of applying to the Federal Rail Administration’s Corridor Identification and Development Program, which will direct billions in funding to develop intercity passenger rail services with the goal to reconnect underserved communities.