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Amtrak to Begin Lewistown Station Renovations

Posted By Beth Toll On In News | Comments Disabled
[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Customers will benefit from station upgrades and platform improvements

LEWISTOWN, Pa. – Amtrak is set to launch construction on substantial station and platform improvements at the Lewistown Station (LEW), [1] which is served daily by the Pennsylvanian [2], a route financed primarily through funds made available by PennDOT.

“As Amtrak continues modernizing stations across the country, improving the customer experience remains at the heart of our efforts,” said Amtrak Vice President of Accessibility Dr. David Handera. “The station and platform enhancements at Lewistown will create a more welcoming and functional environment for those traveling with us for years to come.”

The Lewistown Station (LEW) [3] project is set to begin on Tues., April 7, and will include the following upgrades:

• 250 foot concrete boarding platform, built eight inches above top of rail for improved accessibility for passengers with disabilities and families with small children
• updated LED platform lighting and signage to enhance visibility and safety
• new passenger drop-off zone and two ADA compliant parking stalls for improved station access
• new entrance door and windows for the waiting room
• freshly renovated ADA compliant restroom
• new HVAC system to improve Pennsylvania Railroad Technical and Historical Society (PRRT&HS) comfort in the station waiting area

Considered the oldest depot served by Amtrak, the Lewistown Station [3] is also home to the extensive collections of the Pennsylvania Railroad Technical & Historical Society.

“The society is excited to support this initiative to update the oldest remaining Pennsylvania Railroad train station to modern levels of safety and passenger support for years to come,” said Dave Evans, president of the Pennsylvania Railroad Technical & Historical Society, owner of the station building.

This project represents a total $3.5 million federal investment administered by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). The Lewistown Station improvements are on track for completion in spring 2027. Additional information regarding customer impacts and station access during the temporary construction period is available here [4].

These improvements represent Amtrak’s broader effort to bring integrated, comprehensive accessibility to stations nationwide, ensuring a more inviting and inclusive travel experience for all customers. Across the Amtrak network, 19 stations were brought into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act in the twelve months ending Sept. 30 (Fiscal Year 2025) and another 50 stations are targeted for completion in the next fiscal year (2026) at a forecasted investment of $311 million.

The Amtrak ADA Stations Program is advancing 134 station designs and 68 station construction projects as part of Amtrak’s ongoing commitment to providing accessibility by working toward 100% completion by 2029 using funds provided by Congress through the Federal Railroad Administration [5].

REACTIONS:

Senator Judy Ward, Chair of Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee:

“Since 1849, the Lewistown Station has prominently shaped the transportation network of railroads, roadways and historic canals in the Keystone State, from a bustling trade center to an essential hub for freight and passenger rail in Rural Pennsylvania,” said Senator Judy Ward, Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. “This transformative investment in one of the nation’s oldest depots will honor the legacy of Lewistown and improve overall access, safety and accommodations in anticipation of the second Pennsylvanian passenger train this year.”

Mayor Deborah Bargo of Lewistown, Pennsylvania:

“I can hardly find the words to express my excitement over this news. The impact on our large Amish community, who rely heavily on rail as their preferred mode of travel, will be tremendous, as will the benefits for our Penn State students. Our station, originally built in the 1800s, still carries the charm and character of a bygone era. Many thanks to everyone who helped make this possible.”

Kevin Moore, Board Member, Western Pennsylvanians for Passenger Rail:

“Lewistown will enjoy more rail travel options with Amtrak’s plans to double the frequency of its Pennsylvanian service beginning in Fall 2026. These station improvements will ensure the safe and continued use of this valuable historic building.”

Rhonda Kelley, Executive Director, Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce:

“The Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to see this important investment in the Lewistown Station, a historic gateway to our region. Reliable and accessible passenger rail service plays a vital role in connecting our communities, supporting local businesses, and attracting visitors to experience all that the Juniata River Valley has to offer. These improvements not only enhance safety and accessibility for travelers but also reinforce the value of preserving our historic assets while modernizing infrastructure for future generations. We commend Amtrak for its commitment to strengthening transportation options and economic vitality in our rural communities.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]