Analysis details benefits of SEPTA’s proposed King of Prussia extension

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transpiration Authority's (SEPTA) proposed extension of the Norristown High Speed Line to King of Prussia (KOP) will result in the addition of 17,000–29,000 new employees in King of Prussia over 20 years, according to new analysis released by the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia and Econsult Solutions, Inc.

The “Connecting KOP” study quantifies benefits associated with SEPTA’s King of Prussia Rail Project including job growth, shorter commute times, reduced congestion and increased development.

The Connecting KOP analysis provides a range of estimated impacts based on different alternatives for the rail extension.

Notable findings include:
• Development stimulated by the introduction of King of Prussia Rail is expected to add four to eight million square feet of new development and $540 million–$946 million to the value of King of Prussia real estate over 20 years.
• Transit travel time savings to King of Prussia are projected at 30-plus minutes from Center City, 20-plus minutes from Norristown and 10-plus minutes from Upper Darby.
• Less-congested routes as a result of the introduction of a rail transit option to King of Prussia will save drivers 1.7 million–2.1 million hours per year.
• Construction of the rail extension is anticipated to generate between $1.1 billion and $1.3 billion in economic activity within the five-county region of southeastern Pennsylvania.
• Construction spending will generate an estimated $19.7 million–$22.1 million in income tax, sales tax, and business tax revenues in Pennsylvania.

“Strengthening connections between Greater Philadelphia’s major centers of commerce and culture remains a critical priority for driving growth and expanding opportunity in our region,” said Robert McNeill, managing partner of Greater Philadelphia for Deloitte and chair of the Economy League’s board of directors. “Our region’s footprint has evolved over time. We have to lay the groundwork for strategic expansion that aligns our transportation system with 21st century needs.”

“The region still lacks a reliable and direct transit connection between Philadelphia and King of Prussia—the largest job center in the region outside of the city,” said Elizabeth Smith, manager of long range planning at SEPTA. “The analysis conducted by the Economy League and Econsult Solutions helps illustrate the widespread impact that this investment in our region’s infrastructure would have.”