Baltimore station’s overhaul will help speed trains through nation’s busiest rail corridor
is pursuing an ambitious $75 billion expansion to bring trains to dozens of cities and towns across the nation. The infrastructure law passed last year put $66 billion into rail, which Amtrak plans to use for the expansion while tackling upgrades to tracks, tunnel, bridges and stations. The Penn Station project had already secured funding through Federal Railroad Administration grants before the law was passed.In its busiest market, Amtrak opened Moynihan Train Hall, a $1.
In Washington, a proposal for a multibillion-dollar expansion and overhaul of Union Station would add concourses and tracks, more retail options, a new train hall, and modern parking and bus facilities. The proposed expansion, at least a $10 billion private and public investment, calls for a transformation of the nation’s second-busiest rail hub by 2040.of the plan, notably a parking garage planned as part of the overhaul.
The infrastructure improvements in Baltimore, McAndrew said, have the potential to spur growth and economic development in Charm City. The addition of office and housing around the station could lure companies to Baltimore, where they would have access to job candidates from across the greater Washington region with an easier transportation option.
The building’s three upper floors, which have been vacant for decades, will be restored and converted into shared office space, which project officials say would target start-ups and entrepreneurs in a post-pandemic environment. The office space restoration is expected to be completed next year, according to Penn Station Partners, a joint venture of Beatty Development Group and Cross Street Partners.
“One of our desires is really for this location to be much more than just a place for people riding trains,” Pula said. “We really do see it as a place for the community. A place that people go to get a meal or to meet friends for a drink or attend events at the plaza in front of the train station.”with Amtrak, Penn Station Partners also will develop parcels around the station, including for luxury apartments.