Lehigh Valley’s “Road to Rail” initiative studying possible passenger rail service
Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
A study being led by the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission is looking at the possibility of restoring passenger rail to Philadelphia.
The Lehigh Valley MOVELV: Long-Range Transportation Plan includes a “Road to Rail” initiative that sets the stage for rail service by promoting a diverse and efficient transportation system that includes mode choice in the form of automobiles, bicycles, pedestrians, transit and rail.
The study’s planners say passenger rail has been a long-time topic of discussion in the Lehigh Valley, including conversations around service feasibility, service type, long-term operating and maintenance costs, funding options and supportive land development.
“I believe as the Lehigh Valley continues to grow in population, passenger rail service will become more important inside and outside the region. Rail supports the region’s competitiveness in a global economy,” said Bethlehem Mayor Robert Donchez.
As federal funding sources continue to decline so does the ability to program and complete much needed capacity road improvement projects. The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission says this, combined with recognizable commute patterns and anticipated population growth, warrants a renewed discussion on passenger rail and the advantages that this service brings.
Becky Bradley, executive director of the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission noted, that “the successful evolution of bus and potentially rail service in the Lehigh Valley demands a strategic and measured approach that will identify issues, develop additional bus and passenger rail choice and promote preferred transit option(s).”
The Road to Rail initiative is multimodal and will explore options for implementing LANta’s (the Lehigh Valley’s transit provider) Bus Rapid Transit plan and enhancing existing service. The initiative will also explore passenger rail service to Philadelphia, Harrisburg, New Jersey and New York, as well as, options through the region itself.
