Overview
The article discusses Philadelphia's lack of a permanent intercity bus station since Greyhound closed its Filbert Street terminal, the ongoing challenges with temporary stops, and examines how other cities have developed multimodal transportation hubs. It emphasizes the need for collaboration, funding, and urgency in establishing a permanent, accessible, and safe bus terminal—potentially at 30th Street Station.
Current State of Philadelphia's Intercity Bus Service
- Passengers are left waiting outdoors without shelter, amenities, or proper facilities at the current temporary stop.
- The absence of a permanent station has led to discomfort and safety concerns, especially during extreme weather.
- City officials are considering moving the temporary stop again, possibly to an indoor location with restrooms.
- Accessibility remains a challenge, especially for those with mobility issues at the current location.
Causes of the Current Situation
- Greyhound ended its lease abruptly due to the land’s purchase for a new arena, giving the city little notice.
- Lack of advance planning and prioritization by previous city leadership contributed to the crisis.
- Buses and bus riders are often deprioritized compared to other forms of transit in the U.S.
Multimodal Hubs in Other Cities
- Cities like Boston, D.C., Atlanta, and Charlotte have developed successful multimodal transportation hubs integrating intercity bus and rail services.
- Charlotte’s Gateway Station exemplifies decades-long planning, broad stakeholder involvement, and phased implementation.
- Such projects require city, state, federal, and private collaboration.
Lessons for Philadelphia
- Multiple stakeholders, including Amtrak, PennDOT, bus companies, and city government, must cooperate.
- Funding must come from diverse sources: federal, state, municipal, and private contributions through leases and fees.
- The project should be pitched as a public good to gain taxpayer support despite private industry involvement.
- Rider safety, convenience, and accessibility should be prioritized in station design and location.
Prospects for 30th Street Station
- 30th Street Station is favored by advocates and city officials as a potential permanent hub due to its connectivity.
- A $90,000 grant will fund a feasibility study, but no definitive timeline for completion or station opening is in place.
- There are concerns about congestion if all bus operators use a single location.
Interim Solutions and Next Steps
- City is looking for a safer, cleaner, and more accessible temporary location as plans progress.
- Options under discussion include sites near 7th and Race or the S. 2nd Street Auto Park.
- Advocates stress the need for transparency and setting a permanent plan before additional interim moves.
Decisions
- Pursue feasibility study for 30th Street Station as a permanent bus hub.
- Prioritize identifying and announcing both interim and permanent solutions for the bus station.
Action Items
- ASAP – City of Philadelphia: Complete and release the feasibility study for 30th Street Station.
- TBD – City and Stakeholders: Finalize plan for permanent and temporary bus station locations.
- TBD – City and Stakeholders: Communicate decisions and timelines to the public and riders.