Posted Jul 2, 2012, 10:48 PM
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New Yorker for life
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Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Borough of Jersey
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http://www.crainsnewyork.com/article...TION/120709991
Penn Station makeover is finally in the works
By Andrew J. Hawkins @andyjayhawk
July 2, 2012
Quote:
Penn Station is due for a makeover. Long Island Railroad, New Jersey Transit and Amtrak are exploring ways to revitalize the dingy, underground transit hub over the next several decades, and most importantly, how to pay for it.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority recently contracted with the Los Angeles-based construction firm Aecom to produce a report on ways to optimize the flow of commuter traffic through the station, as well as improve its overall appearance and commercial amenities. The firm is scheduled to deliver its report at the end of the year, after which the transit agencies will decide which recommendations to accept, and how to divvy up the responsibilities.
“There is room at Penn Station for physical changes that will make travel more pleasant,” said LIRR President Helena Williams. “We know the commuter experience can and should be improved.”
The plan, entitled Penn Station Vision, was first reported July 1 by Newsday.
Still in its early stages, the project will be paid for in the MTA's next five-year capital plan, which starts in 2015. The price tag will not be covered by the $267 million Moynihan Station project, which aims to redevelop the adjacent Farley Post Office into a new entry point for Penn Station.
The project is also not expected to turn Penn Station into an architectural masterpiece like Grand Central Terminal, officials cautioned. The station is underground, and with Madison Square Garden sitting directly above it, any expansion would be limited.
"The basement atmosphere, I don't think there is much that can be done with that, other than perhaps sprucing it up," said Bruce Becker, president of the Empire State Passengers Association. Instead, officials are looking for ways to better utilize the space available. Knocking down walls to improve the flow of commuter traffic, and improving the lighting are some of the upgrades expected to be explored.
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