Curbed Philly - 30th Street Station District Plan CoverageLove where you live2017-12-18T10:35:41-05:00http://philly.curbed.com/rss/stream/117184252017-12-18T10:35:41-05:002017-12-18T10:35:41-05:00Here’s your Philly megadevelopment cheat sheet
<figure>
<img alt="Schuylkill Yards" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sWmzUalCMPygSU3IFqGf3F96L9c=/422x0:4379x2968/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56120047/1_City_Built_Schuylkill_Yards.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Philadelphia’s development boom includes numerous multi-billion dollar projects. | Rendering by Shop Architects/West 8</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Developers are spending billions of dollars to build new residences, hotels, and parks in Philadelphia</p> <p id="2H3BVt"><em>Editor’s note: This article was originally published in August 2017 and has since been updated with the most recent information. </em></p>
<p id="S0tpzM">There’s a lot of talk about Philly’s growing skyline these days. Numerous cranes already dot the sky, and countless corners of the city have been transformed into construction sites. </p>
<p id="vsMhCC">But as research shows, Philly’s skyline still has a long way to go compared to other major U.S. cities, <a href="https://chicago.curbed.com/2017/7/26/15983862/chicago-megadevelopment-megaproject-list-information">like Chicago</a> and New York. And developers are definitely noticing: There is approximately <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/11/30/16715170/philadelphia-new-construction-analysis-2018">8 million square feet of new construction</a> set to change Philly’s skyline in 2018 alone.</p>
<p id="avbb3a">What’s more, there are <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/maps/philly-tower-highrise-construction-map">numerous projects in the works</a> that are valued at $1 billion or more <em>each. </em>Many of what we’d call megaprojects will take years to complete, but some of them are set to debut as early as 2018. </p>
<p id="MMnfVy">Here’s a look at some of the transformative developments that cost at least $1 billion. These big-time projects will not only reshape the areas they’re being built in, but will also make a noticeable impact on the city’s skyline.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="3IxkJW">
<h2 id="XBJdvd">
<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/building/4730/comcast-technology-center">Comcast Technology Center</a>, $1.5 billion</h2>
<div class="c-float-right"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/vE5MIP15lCFidGz55_R-u6QqWJU=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9019819/comcast_citc_view_from_17th_and_JFK_Blvd.jpg">
<cite>Rendering by Foster+Partners</cite>
<figcaption>Philly’s first supertall tower.</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<p id="MELKzf">On the rise since breaking ground in 2014, the Liberty Property Trust-developed Comcast Technology Center is set to be the shot in the arm for Philadelphia. Standing at 1,121 feet, the Foster+Partners designed tower will not only be Philly’s first supertall building, but also the tallest tower in the state of Pennsylvania and outside of New York City and Chicago. (Its sister tower, the 973-foot-tall <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/venue/23066/comcast-center">Comcast Center</a> that was built in 2008, will be dethroned and become the second tallest in the city.) </p>
<p id="Je09Wo">The 60-story Comcast Technology Center <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/11/28/16704162/philadelphia-tallest-building-comcast-tower">recently topped off</a> and is expected to open in 2018. When it does, it will be the home of Comcast’s tech gurus, as well as the company’s own CEO, <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/2/10/14563862/comcast-technology-center-condos-sold-to-ceo">who bought the only three condos</a> available in the building on the 45th floor. </p>
<p id="V8p2lz">Meanwhile, the upper levels of the tower will feature a <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/17/15983170/four-seasons-hotel-comcast-tower-philadelphia-renderings">Four Seasons Hotel</a>, which will be the most highly situated hotel in the entire country. It’s a return for Four Seasons to Philadelphia; the hotel was originally located on Logan Square, and has since been replaced by the <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2015/12/15/10620624/sneak-peek-at-the-logan-hotel-phillys-newest-luxury-hotel">Logan Hotel</a>. </p>
<p id="Akrk05">The city of Philadelphia and really the entire region is expecting a lot when Comcast Technology Center opens. It’s <a href="http://www.econsultsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/ESI-The-Economic-and-Fiscal-Impact-of-Comcast.pdf">expected to bring in 4,000 new jobs</a>, and on top of being the world-class, innovative headquarters for Comcast employees, it will also be a tourist attraction for the city, with multiple areas and restaurants open to the public. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="A rendering of the 30th Street Station District Plan at night." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/8qvQzUTpWrNzqjMQy62F8dzEVjs=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7821371/Screen_Shot_2017_01_17_at_8.00.27_AM.png">
<cite>Rendering by Skidmore, Owings, & Merill</cite>
<figcaption>30th Street Station District.</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2 id="gg66pn">
<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/6/16/11954384/30th-street-station-district-plan-coverage">30th Street Station District</a>, $6.5 billion </h2>
<p id="mFdWGt">The City of Philadelphia and a host of developers, designers, and transportation heads have embarked on an ambitious 35-year plan to create 18 million square feet of new development—including a new neighborhood and 40 acres of green space—all within University City. </p>
<p id="m5ZMPT">Amtrak and its long list of consultants have hosted numerous public open houses over the years, gathering community input and feedback on its plans for the 30th Street Station District. In 2016, <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/6/16/11953834/final-30th-street-district-plan-renderings">it released the final master plan</a>, based on months of feedback. </p>
<p id="W5yq6r">Adjacent to the proposed Schuylkill Yards (more on that below), <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/6/16/11954384/30th-street-station-district-plan-coverage">the 30th Street Station District</a> has an incredibly long list of projects it plans to undertake, everything from improving traffic and pedestrian safety around 30th Street Station to creating <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/11/14/16645644/30th-street-station-district-plan-station-plaza-renderings">more public space around it</a> to creating an entire neighborhood over the rail yards. </p>
<p id="t4LdiS">Most recently, Amtrak <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/10/3/16404122/amtrak-30th-street-station-rfq-delay-amazon-headquarters">halted its search for a master developer</a> amid the Amazon HQ2 search frenzy, with the idea that the site might be a contender for the e-commerce giant’s new headquarters. The search is expected to pick up again in early 2018. Here’s the <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/3/16/11244554/30th-st-station-district-plan-timeline">full 35-year timeline</a> to help wrap your around the massive undertaking. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/dGUsKzAIxU50D4ihBYsk4jqm3ec=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7487219/2_Neighborhood_Built_Schuylkill_Yards_2.0.jpeg">
<cite>Rendering by Shop Architects/West 8</cite>
<figcaption>Schuylkill Yards.</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2 id="7xPNFX">
<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/3/27/15071480/news-and-updates-on-the-schuylkill-yards">Schuylkill Yards</a>, $3.5 billion</h2>
<p id="IXQg2v">The elaborate <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/3/2/11147980/drexel-unveils-schuylkill-yards-renderings">press conference alone announcing Schuylkill Yards</a> in March 2016 was just the beginning of what’s in store for the Drexel University-Brandywine Realty Trust venture. The $3.5 billion development is set to transform 14 acres in University City into a leading innovation hub of the region, with eight high-rises, totaling 6.9 million square feet. It’s also one of the three contenders pitched as a spot for<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/10/19/16502752/amazon-hq2-philadelphia-rfp-schuylkill-yards-navy-yard-ucity"> Amazon HQ2 to set up shop</a>. </p>
<p id="q0N2TN"><a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/11/8/16622906/schuylkill-yards-groundbreaking">The groundbreaking</a> of the 1.3-acre elliptical park called Drexel Square kicked the project off in November. The public space is being built first as a sign of goodwill to the community. Brandywine Realty Trust is also announced its $5 million <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/6/27/15879084/schuylkill-yards-affordable-housing-neighborhood-development">Neighborhood Engagement Initiative</a>, which will address and fund five specific areas that neighbors of the future project have highlighted in past community meetings, from job growth to affordable housing to educational support. </p>
<p id="615p49">Drexel and Brandywine say that the entirety of <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/3/27/15071480/news-and-updates-on-the-schuylkill-yards">Schuylkill Yards</a> to expected to take 20 years, so this is a project Philly will be watching for a long, long time. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/1Z9YlEjxWz1PpJ3ZQkNiCUVY27E=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8995093/uCity_Square_Aerial__View_NE__v2__1_.jpg">
<cite>Rendering by ZGF Architects LLP/Omega</cite>
<figcaption>uCity Square.</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2 id="AkAW7f">uCity Square, $1 billion</h2>
<p id="2eSNNI">With the January 2017 groundbreaking of its first tower, <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/1/17/14294672/3675-market-street-groundbreaking-university-city">3675 Market,</a> uCity Square is also positioning itself as becoming an innovation-driven district, similar to Schuylkill Yards. It was <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/10/19/16502752/amazon-hq2-philadelphia-rfp-schuylkill-yards-navy-yard-ucity">also considered a prime spot</a> for Amazon HQ2 in Philly’s official bid. </p>
<p id="FROKdD">In total, it’s a 6,000,000-square-foot project. uCity Square has 2.5 million square feet of existing property, with another 350,000 square feet under construction. Yet another 3.65 million square feet is still in the pre-development stages. </p>
<p id="G1l4Ax">Within that 6 million-square-foot district will be two public spaces and the build-out of new roads that will better connect the development with the surrounding neighborhoods, such as Powelton Village. But given that the completion of uCity Square is way down the road, it has allowed University City District <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/11/15938472/ucity-square-urban-meadow-park-philadelphia">to build a temporary meadow on its construction site</a>. </p>
<p id="CE3MEI">The project is being developed by the University City Science Center and Wexford Science + Technology, which specializes in working with institutions to develop what it calls “Knowledge Communities.” </p>
<p id="mRvNQU"></p>
<h2 id="SRREhf">Liberty on the River, $1.2 billion</h2>
<p id="FxRgHU">This major multi-phase project has been in the works for some time by developer K4 LLC and architect Barton Partners. It covers 17 acres—almost all of the land between Washington Avenue and Reed Street—and will bring 10 residential high-rises totaling 2,000 units, 100 townhouses, and one 22-story hotel to the expansive site on the Delaware River near Pennsport.</p>
<p id="IQnxRY">But the project has hit numerous speed bumps along the way. Most recently, a bill that would have allowed taller buildings to be constructed on the Delaware River waterfront <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/6/13/15790234/delaware-river-waterfront-zoning-bill-delay">has been delayed</a>, with the developer planning to work with the neighborhood residents over the summer on the zoning bill and project’s future. </p>
<p id="lxrpPM">Meanwhile, the project has applied for $44 million total in RACP state grants for the project. It remains to be seen if the state will grant its big ask. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4LwivF4YoLQlDFXiAjffZawe9E8=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9019809/img1.jpg">
<cite>Rendering by Foster+Partners</cite>
<figcaption>Penn Medicine Pavilion.</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2 id="Z9ddLK">
<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/11/17/13656876/norman-foster-penn-patient-pavilion-renderings">Penn Medicine Pavilion</a>, $1.5 billion</h2>
<p id="GB3s1W">The University of Pennsylvania Hospital’s $1.5 billion project Penn Medicine Pavilion is the largest capital project in Penn’s history. It’s also arguably one of the most ambitious and interesting healthcare projects in the city right now. </p>
<p id="QVHsOT">The <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/11/17/13656876/norman-foster-penn-patient-pavilion-renderings">Foster+Partners-designed</a>, 1.5-million-square-foot building will stand 16 stories tall on the site of the former Penn Tower and be home to 500 new patient rooms and 47 operating rooms. Its summer concrete pour <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/12/15953988/penn-medicine-pavilion-concrete-pour-video">was the largest in the history of Philadelphia</a>. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3ZLnn_QUVUq5rici_2PdymvuB_E=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7208159/LPTCentralGreen1200IntrepidTheNavyYard.0.jpg">
<cite>Courtesy of Rasmus Hjortshøj–COAST</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="gN222I">Navy Yard, $1 billion+</h2>
<p id="1ItLYp">Philadelphia’s historic Navy Yard has been booming with new development for years now, with more than $1 billion in both public and private investment. It all started when Urban Outfitters bought a property here for $1 and turned it into their massive headquarters. Today, the Navy Yard is home to 1,200 acres, housing some 150 companies and is drawing big-name designers <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/11/3/13500326/bjarke-ingels-1200-intrepid-leed-gold">like Bjarke Ingels</a> and <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/4/1/11346548/important-green-stormwater-infrastructure-projects">Field Operations</a> to its projects. </p>
<p id="QX5muv">And it’s not over yet. The Navy Yard one of the three Amazon HQ2 contenders pitched by Philly in the city’s official bid. Plus, the campus, largely developed by Liberty Property Trust, has long-term plans for more mixed-use developments that could mean that one day <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2015/12/1/9895736/navy-yard-residential-units-plan">people will actually be able to live on campus</a>. It has applied for a $5 million state grant for a mixed-use rehabilitation project that includes 36,000-square-feet of retail and commercial space and residential units. </p>
<aside id="2zD1uY"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Top Philly real estate trends to expect in 2018","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/2017/12/4/16721252/philadelphia-real-estate-trends-2018"}]}'></div></aside><hr class="p-entry-hr" id="YZkp0l">
<h2 id="nPgJwX">Smaller, though still major developments</h2>
<p id="9I8JJa">Philly’s development boom isn’t just about megaprojects that are shelling out billions of dollars. There are other smaller, but still significant developments in the works that will transform neighborhoods and the city itself. Some, like the major mixed-use project East Market, are already well underway, while others, like the Penn’s Landing capping, are still in the very beginning stages. The following projects represent developments that are worth $200 million or more. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/9R9U9rEic8einmijqC9BQIttHWE=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/6992023/Screen_Shot_2016-08-25_at_7.22.36_AM.0.png">
<cite>Rendering by BLT Architects</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="36hjHO">
<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/east-market-project">East Market</a>, $600 million+</h2>
<p id="bHALIZ">East Market, a 4-acre mixed-use development that will span an entire block between Market and Chestnut streets, is very much still under construction since <a href="http://philly.curbed.com/2014/10/2/10040410/mayor-nutter-helps-break-ground-on-east-market-megaproject">its 2014 groundbreaking</a>. But when all is said and done, the multi-phase project led by National Real Estate Development will bring 562 residential units between two towers and major retailers like <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/5/16/15646172/wawa-store-east-market-philadelphia">Wawa</a>, <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/5/19/15660304/city-fitness-east-market-lease">City Fitness</a>, <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/2/6/14522988/east-market-philadelphia-iron-hill-brewery-restaurant">Iron Hill Brewery</a>, <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/7/14/12177288/east-market-mixed-use-development-construction-photos">Mom’s Organic Market</a>, and the Design Center to the Market East corridor. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/XiDPS1YtKxt1Gn2zd3BJXynoDWM=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8995271/2015_05_04___FOP___Aerial_Night_Rendering_Towers_LoRes.jpg">
<cite>Rendering courtesy of PREIT</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="RLDp61">Fashion District of Philadelphia, $365 million</h2>
<p id="R2Gbqx">Across the street from the East Market development will be the future Fashion District of Philadelphia, setting up shop in the former Gallery Mall. First pitched as the Fashion Outlets, the project <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/8/17/16162196/gallery-mall-fashion-district-philadelphia-update">underwent a rebranding</a> and now plans to bring a <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/12/4/16721252/philadelphia-real-estate-trends-2018">new kind of shopping experience</a> to the old mall on Market, with fancy movie theater, high-end retail, and a food hall. </p>
<p id="FQgIeu"><a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/12/20/14010772/gallery-mall-fashion-outlets-philadelphia-construction-begins">Already well under construction</a>, Shoemaker and Skanska have been renovating about 1,400,000 square feet of both interior and exterior space, making it the largest retail repositioning project in the region. When <a href="http://www.philly.com/philly/business/retail/fashion-district-philadelphias-opening-is-delayed-until-november-2018-preit-ceo-says-20171208.html?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Morning%20email%2012-08&utm_content=Morning%20email%2012-08+CID_a9a332a76be58e68cf2762b354d65f0a&utm_source=email&utm_term=The%20opening%20was%20just%20pushed%20back%20six%20months">construction finishes in November 2018</a>, the PREIT-developed project will span three city blocks.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JnExt89oKMs2lhpSleC3sW37Obg=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9034005/Penns_landing_rendering_capping_3.0.png">
<cite>Rendering by Hargreaves Associates/redsquare</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="LdSkvg">Penn’s Landing, $225 million</h2>
<p id="CMOOEx">When <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/9/19/16316626/delaware-river-waterfront-penns-landing-95-philadelphia-history">construction on the I-95 highway</a> began in 1959, its intention was to serve as a connector between the suburbs and downtown Philadelphia and link the city’s riverfront on the Delaware with the airport. While it serves as a major mode of transportation, it has also cut off the riverfront from the rest of the city. </p>
<p id="fMEIZR">The city plans to change the damage of I-95 by capping four acres of it and <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/6/10/15774912/penns-landing-park-capping-project-cost-timeline">building an eight-acre park at Penn’s Landing</a>. Also in store: 1,500 new housing units, 500 hotel rooms, and more than 100,000-square-feet of retail, restaurants, and entertainment. <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/6/10/15774912/penns-landing-park-capping-project-cost-timeline">Total funding has been committed</a> for the project, which is expected to finish construction in 2021.</p>
<p id="rXB27K"></p>
<h2 id="DYJT9t">SLS Philadelphia Hotel & Residences, $240 million</h2>
<p id="rcZ9f1">It’s been four years since <a href="http://dranoffproperties.com/places/sls-philadelphia/">developer Carl Dranoff</a> announced his plans to build the 45-story SLS Philadelphia hotel and condo building right on Broad Street. While the wrecking ball has since razed the former Philadelphia International Records building, the site remains vacant as the project <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/3/21/14998458/sls-hotel-philadelphia-dranoff-construction-update">awaits the $19 million</a> it applied for through the state’s RACP program. </p>
<p id="i8sE7e">The project calls for 90 condominium residences, 152 hotel rooms, and 4,600 square feet of ground floor retail space. When completed, the tower will be the tallest ground-up residential building in Pennsylvania.</p>
<p id="Jqd9tB">If and when that money comes through, Dranoff, who most recently <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/5/3/15528416/one-riverside-condo-philadelphia-carl-dranoff-photos">debuted the luxury condo high-rise One Riverside</a> on the Schuylkill, will have sufficient funding to begin work on the project. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wi-C0MSycNfl8Qt6IsgMvUwdBlM=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9020115/the_w_philadelphia_02.jpg">
<cite>Renderings by Cope Linder Architects</cite>
<figcaption>W Hotel and Element by Westin.</figcaption>
</figure>
<h3 id="QKTcOy">W Hotel and Element by Westin, $359 million </h3>
<p id="bpDllx">Developer Chestlen Development is bringing two hotels to the corner site at 15th and Chestnut: A 295-room W Philadelphia and a 460-room Element Philadelphia Hotel. Clocking in a 51 stories, the tower broke ground in 2015 and at the time <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/8/23/12602970/w-element-hotels-concrete-pour-video-philadelphia">had one of the largest concrete pours in Philly’s history</a>. It’s expected to open in spring 2018 and totals 770,607 square feet.</p>
<p id="bKvnGx"></p>
<h3 id="gv9Rx6">
<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/11/28/13762610/river-walk-towers-schuylkill-gensler-pmc-information">River Walk</a>, $300 million</h3>
<p id="xHUfFe">One of the last remaining undeveloped lots on the Schuykill is expected to become home to two glassy, skinny towers designed by Gensler and developed by PMC Property Group. The proposal calls for two residential towers: A 32- and 28-story, totaling 600 total units. </p>
<p id="Bs1e4Z">Most recently, the project cleared its latest hurdles: Extending a zoning permit that allows the developer to build the project by-right and clearing the <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/10/4/16409006/pmc-river-walk-towers-gensler-design-review-recap">Civic Design Review</a>, <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/11/8/16618724/civic-design-review-recap-river-walk-towers-new-market-west">though not without concerns</a>. The development is expected to break ground this year, though it is not clear if it will be a multi-phase project. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/p8iBMzYGMI03kO9Ak4tRlFiQ09U=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7087109/Schuylkill_Ave_View_cropped.0.jpg">
<cite>Rendering by Gensler/Varenhorst</cite>
</figure>
<h3 id="JIhC9j">Aramark Headquarters, $230 million</h3>
<p id="PsIfcD">Along with River Walk, PMC Property and Gensler are also make up the developer-design team behind Aramark’s big move to 2400 Market Street.<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/9/12/12891512/aramark-new-headquarters-2400-market-renderings"> Aramark’s announcement</a> that it was staying put in September 2016 made big waves after rumors swirled that the big-time food service company was planning to move its headquarters out of Philadelphia. </p>
<div class="c-float-right"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/c8bXwnL86zJpdGe6IMkR43FQls4=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9020023/1911_Walnut_Rendering_1_top_view_LR.jpg">
<cite>Rendering by Solomon Cordwell Buenz Architecture</cite>
<figcaption>1911 Walnut.</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<p id="pq19Yt">With construction well underway, the plan calls to transform the existing structure into a a modern, 600,000-square-foot, nine-story building. Aramark, the anchor tenant, will occupy the top five floors and 300,000 square feet of space, while <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/11/10/16630480/fitler-club-2400-market-renderings-photos">Fitler Club</a>, a membership-only lifestyle club, will set up shop on the lower levels. In keeping with the company’s green goals, the plan calls for 8,000 square feet of outdoor terraces that will look over the Schuylkill River. </p>
<h3 id="okYllx">1911 Walnut, $300 million</h3>
<p id="N5JXKa">After years of tweaks and community meetings, one of the last-remaining vacant lots in Rittenhouse Square is going to be developed and transformed into 1911 Walnut. Developed by Southern Land Company and designed by Solomon Cordwell Buenz Architecture, 1911 Walnut will be 47 or 48 stories tall with both rentals and condos, some of which will include <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/6/15/15808040/1911-walnut-mixed-income-housing-affordable">mixed-income housing</a>. Preliminary construction work began with <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/5/30/15712114/1911-walnut-construction-demolition-update">demolition of the Oliver H. Bair Funeral Home</a> garage this year, but an <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/12/14/16777790/1911-walnut-philadelphia-groundbreaking">official groundbreaking</a> isn’t expected until 2019. </p>
<h3 id="iQLTj4">1001 S. Broad Street</h3>
<p id="rL4VNe">Although the total project cost has not been divulged, Bart Blatstein’s <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/4/6/11372224/bart-blatstein-south-broad-megaproject">massive mixed-use project planned</a> for South Broad and Washington Avenue will undoubtedly bring big changes to the corridor whenever it breaks ground. Long a vacant eyesore, the 195,000-square-foot site was <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/31/16059926/bart-blatstein-purchases-1001-s-broad-development">recently acquired by the developer for $20 million</a>. He plans to build a 34-story tower with some 1,000 residential units, office space, and 160,000-square-feet of retail in what Blatstein has referred to as a “shopping village.” </p>
<p id="gskJWN">This project hasn’t come without its hurdles: Blatstein only recently bought the site, months after he had begun the design and zoning processes with the city. And neighbors have expressed concern about the scope and size of the project compared to the rest of the neighborhood. <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/4/6/11372224/bart-blatstein-south-broad-megaproject">Blatstein, who has said</a>, “I believe in this project 100 percent,” has not revealed a groundbreaking date yet. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CjsalJBQ1RZrlfx8GuctVu3RcE4=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9020075/Screen_Shot_2017_08_09_at_10.02.56_AM.png">
<cite>Rendering by Cope Linder Architects</cite>
<figcaption>1001 S. Broad Street.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="HY4zu3"></p>
<ul>
<li id="viEnZ6"><a href="https://philly.curbed.com/maps/philly-tower-highrise-construction-map">Philly’s high-rises currently under construction, mapped</a></li>
<li id="sBT0A4"><a href="https://philly.curbed.com/maps/university-city-projects-under-construction">Mapping major University City projects in the works</a></li>
<li id="Q6My7T">
<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/maps/new-philly-center-city-developments-for-sale-rent">Center City’s new residential developments, mapped</a> </li>
<li id="hJr3G1">
<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/maps/philadelphia-hotels-map">Mapping 15 hotel projects in Philadelphia to watch</a> </li>
<li id="ebmJPZ"><a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/24/15999992/philadelphia-skyline-construction-stats-comparison">Philly’s skyline has room to grow compared to rest of U.S., report fin</a></li>
</ul>
<aside id="JRJnMt"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Top Philly real estate trends to expect in 2018","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/2017/12/4/16721252/philadelphia-real-estate-trends-2018"},{"title":"Mapping the 27 high-rises under construction in Philly right now","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/maps/philadelphia-tower-highrise-construction-map"},{"title":"Mapping University City’s development boom","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/maps/university-city-philadelphia-development-projects"},{"title":"Mapping 15 hotel projects in Philadelphia to watch","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/maps/philadelphia-hotels-map"},{"title":"Philly’s skyline has room to grow compared to rest of U.S., report finds","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/24/15999992/philadelphia-skyline-construction-stats-comparison"},{"title":"Mapping South Broad Street’s development projects","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/maps/south-broad-street-philadelphia-development-map"}]}'></div></aside><ul><li id="HOZNuD">
<a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/24/15999992/philadelphia-skyline-construction-stats-comparison">ds</a> </li></ul>
<aside id="HoE92N"><div data-anthem-component="newsletter" data-anthem-component-data='{"slug":"philly-curbed"}'></div></aside>
https://philly.curbed.com/2017/8/9/16059724/philadelphia-megadevelopment-megaproject-list-informationMelissa Romero2017-11-14T08:00:05-05:002017-11-14T08:00:05-05:00Amtrak reveals new designs for Station Plaza at 30th Street Station
<figure>
<img alt="A rendering of 30th Street Station in Philadelphia. The station has tall windows and a tan facade. There are trees and roads in front of the building." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/B29itBBKeoUjtdsavffjHPpT3yI=/0x0:5000x3750/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57587735/30th_Street_Aerial.1510606998.jpg" />
<figcaption>Amtrak has revealed its concept plan for Station Plaza. | Renderings courtesy of Amtrak</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Goodbye, polka dots. Hello, bike station. </p> <p id="lnYRDz">Amtrak just revealed its preferred design concept for its “grand civic space” at <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/building/30th-street-station">30th Street Station</a>, swapping out proposed circular paving patterns for circular benches and planters, instead. That, plus a big plan to improve traffic and pedestrian flow around the station. </p>
<p id="4JxmS9">The plans come months after Amtrak hosted its final <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/13/15962148/30th-street-station-district-plan-station-plaza-renderings">30th Street Station District open house in July</a>, focusing on what it’s calling Station Plaza, public space that will surround the station on all four sides. At the time, the proposal, designed by <a href="http://www.fxfowle.com/projects/132/The%20Ashland/">FXFOWLE</a>, <a href="http://www.melk-nyc.com/">!melk</a>, and <a href="https://www.arup.com/">ARUP</a>, called for increased pedestrian pathways, polka dot-like paving patterns, skylights on the sidewalk, and elevated tree planters surrounding 30th Street Station.</p>
<p id="48yeBT">By the looks of it, Amtrak and the design team took a lot of the feedback from the community and stakeholder and made some significant changes to its final design concept. You can read all <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/539b050fe4b077b40b221f4f/t/5a0479990d9297da01057945/1510242754240/171107-Preferred+Concept+Plan_Final_public_web.pdf">107 pages of the proposal</a> here, but here are some of the major takeaways, pared with new glossy renderings. </p>
<h3 id="T7u015">A grand entry to the West Underground Concourse</h3>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/tHuwPr4miKJSDjfXyAtHSGdN_Dk=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9671439/West_Station_Plaza_Concourse_Connection.jpg">
</figure>
<p id="p0KpzI">One of the most popular requests from the July open house was underground connection between the SEPTA subway and trolleys to 30th Street Station. Ask an ye shall receive: Amtrak says it’s working closely with SEPTA to make this happen. The connection will lead to the West Underground Concourse, which will feature retail and restaurants, with a grand entrance at the southwest corner of the station. </p>
<h3 id="c2SFOt">New taxi spots and a bike garage</h3>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Si7lFhSaTzKVQCeknf-1ZOwGHaA=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9717807/30th_Street_Taxi_Pick_Up.jpg">
<figcaption>West taxi drop-off area.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="YU1qyS">In one of the many efforts to tame traffic flow, addressing taxi pick-up and taxi queuing locations were of most importance for the conceptual design plan. Currently, taxis pick up and drop off at the east portico of the station, often creating a line of traffic. The new plan calls to split this up, with drop-offs on the east portico near the train platforms. Pick-ups will be moved to the west side under the SEPTA Regional Rail overpass, as shown above. </p>
<p id="Y4MBfv">Cyclists will also be happy to know that the plan calls for something called the Bike Station, a “large” structure designed for about 220 bikes, bike rentals, lockers, and a service station. It’ll be 105 feet by 25 feet in size and is considered similar to the <a href="http://home.bikestation.com/bikestation-washington-dc">bike station at Union Station in DC</a>. There will also be an increase of bike racks around the station, from 80 to about 100. </p>
<h3 id="mqdAiz">“Urban rooms” throughout</h3>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/25uKX5nmX1ju0zNSHFYxmqrb-EU=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9717809/30th_Street_Southeast_Corner.jpg">
<figcaption>East Portico.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="pHopCX">At the open house, feedback of the landscaping and paving patterns was deemed “not appropriate for the historic nature of the station and would not age well.” So instead of circular paving patterns, the new design calls for circular features in the form of benches and elevated planters. </p>
<p id="pKvp7k">These structures, plus the landscaping, will aim to help “define edges, guide pedestrians,” and create the feel of “urban rooms” surrounding the station. </p>
<h3 id="pGAwOy">More pedestrian-only spaces</h3>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5MAvOF7AvzzgK9_0_utPv5hLv7U=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9717817/30th_Street_The_Grove_copy.jpg">
<figcaption>South Station Plaza.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="9YIf4W">The southern portion of the station will be heavily pedestrian-friendly, namely around South Station Plaza along Market Street. In fact, the west portico and the southwest portion of the plaza will be car-free. This space, heavily influenced by the current Porch at 30th Street Station, will be sandwiched by two green spaces and is seen as a space for temporary food trucks or pop-up markets. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mJrLZrHVOgzWryJmfah1FtEPPYE=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9717819/30th_Street_Southwest_Corner.jpg">
<figcaption>There will be some water features around the station, including at the West Portico.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="T2USz8">What’s next? The report notes that while these are Amtrak’s preferred concept plans, some of the designs may change, “but it is expected that the spirit, intent, and general configuration described here will be maintained as the design evolves.” A lot of these plans will also require further study. </p>
<p id="oJZwgM">Amtrak will also re-up its search for a Master Developer (it halted its search <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/10/3/16404122/amtrak-30th-street-station-rfq-delay-amazon-headquarters">amid the Amazon HQ2 frenzy</a>), who will be responsible for implementing all of the development around 30th Street Station, including the Station Plaza. But this is a 35-year master plan, so don’t expect any immediate changes. </p>
https://philly.curbed.com/2017/11/14/16645644/30th-street-station-district-plan-station-plaza-renderingsMelissa Romero2017-10-03T15:48:11-04:002017-10-03T15:48:11-04:0030th St. Station master developer search delayed due to Amazon HQ2
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/r4WPGBjiDrT9KjFE1Nd9khRXU24=/222x0:3778x2667/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48740115/curbed_placeholder.54.0.jpg" />
</figure>
<p>Amtrak has postponed its search until early 2018</p> <p id="xuCUaR">Amtrak’s search for a master developer to take on its <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/building/30th-street-station">30th Street Station</a> District Plan just came to a halt in light of all of the Amazon hubbub. </p>
<p id="ttxn9I">Amtrak sent an e-mail to interested developers yesterday announcing the postponement of its request for qualifications (RFQ) for a master developer, t<a href="http://www.philly.com/philly/business/real_estate/commercial/amtrak-postpones-search-for-30th-street-developer-amid-amazon-hq-pursuit-20171002.html?utm_campaign=Philly.com+Twitter+Account&utm_source=t.co&utm_medium=social&cid=Philly.com+Twitter">he <em>Inquirer </em>first reported</a>. The search will pick up again in early 2018. </p>
<p id="8t9n71">The RFQ was issued <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/8/24/16190880/amtrak-rfq-30th-street-station-philadelphia">in late August</a>, seeking a developer to implement Amtrak’s 30th Street Station District Plan, a $6.5 billion venture to improve the station and create a mixed-use development all around the station. </p>
<p id="uuB7Ic">Why the halt? Amazon.</p>
<p id="PsVqeJ">It sounds like Amtrak is seriously considering Philly’s pitch to bring Amazon’s second headquarters to the city. The area surrounding the 30th Street Station District Master Plan, which includes Schuylkill Yards, is said to be <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/maps/amazon-hq2-philadelphia-locations">one of the spots being pitched</a> by the city to Amazon. </p>
<p id="MB0HQS">Amtrak’s e-mail is in full is below: </p>
<blockquote>
<p id="hHLQNT">In light of the recent announcement by Amazon of its search for a second corporate headquarters and the City of Philadelphia’s interest in submitting a proposal, Amtrak has decided to postpone the current Philadelphia Master Developer Partnership Request for Qualifications (RFQ) until early 2018.</p>
<p id="8AqTrE">While Philadelphia is still determining the best site to present to Amazon, Amtrak feels it best to suspend its solicitation for a master developer until such time a decision on the Amazon headquarters has been made.</p>
<p id="lK4zBA">Please be aware that Amtrak’s RFQ for Philadelphia Master Developer has been cancelled with no further information available at this time. All events, site tours and due dates have been cancelled.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="XLENks">Pitches to Amazon are due by October 19. Stay tuned.</p>
<aside id="msz3lx"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data="{"stories":[{"title":"Here are all the cities near Philly vying for Amazon's new HQ","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/2017/9/28/16373282/amazon-new-headquarters-philadelphia-competing-cities"},{"title":"Philly wants your help to bring Amazon HQ2 here","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/2017/9/15/16314426/amazon-hq2-philadelphia-campaign-how-to-help"},{"title":"Philly wants to bring Amazon’s HQ here. But where?","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/2017/9/7/16267600/amazon-new-headquarters-philadelphia-proposal"},{"title":"9 prime places in Philly for Amazon’s HQ2, mapped","url":"https://philly.curbed.com/maps/amazon-hq2-philadelphia-locations"}]}"></div></aside><ul><li id="7N3s4d">
<a href="http://www.philly.com/philly/business/real_estate/commercial/amtrak-postpones-search-for-30th-street-developer-amid-amazon-hq-pursuit-20171002.html?utm_campaign=Philly.com+Twitter+Account&utm_source=t.co&utm_medium=social&cid=Philly.com+Twitter">Amtrak postpones search for 30th Street developer amid Amazon HQ pursuit</a> [Inquirer]</li></ul>
https://philly.curbed.com/2017/10/3/16404122/amtrak-30th-street-station-rfq-delay-amazon-headquartersMelissa Romero2017-08-24T09:00:05-04:002017-08-24T09:00:05-04:00Amtrak’s 30th Street Station is looking for a master developer
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hoRvKf8RZxhEHMEMR-ljHuhIuXY=/570x0:5430x3645/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56328133/Aerial_View_from_Center_City.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Amtrak has issued an RFQ for a master developer. | Courtesy of Amtrak</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Up to the task?</p> <p id="CEG56G">Amtrak is wasting no time starting work on its multi-billion dollar 30th Street Station District plan. But first, it needs a developer. </p>
<p id="jgs6Ct">Amtrak has taken another step forward by issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) this week in search of a master developer to help lead the ambitious multi-billion dollar project, which includes the redevelopment of 30th Street Station itself and 18 million square feet of new development around it, including a new neighborhood and 40 acres of green space.</p>
<p id="n0cK3y">Rina Cutler, Amtrak’s senior director of major station planning and development said in the announcement, “We are seeking an innovative partner who understands the vision for Philadelphia, respects the surrounding neighborhoods, and is excited to partner on a plan that will significantly improve the experience for all travelers, while maximizing the value of our strategic assets.”</p>
<p id="YVwYMP">Some 4 million Amtrak passengers travel through 30th Street Station each year, making it Amtrak’s third busiest station in its entire system. That number is only projected to increase—ridership is expected to double by 2040—For years, it has been developing a master plan to improve the station itself and its surrounding properties, culminating into the 30th Street Station District plan. </p>
<p id="HPGSPD">Already, Amtrak has received a large amount of interest from developers. <a href="http://nec.amtrak.com/sites/default/files/Industry%20Day%20Attendee%20List%20-%20Philadelphia%2030th%20Street%20Station%20Master%20Dev.%20Partnership%207.28%20-.pdf">Nearly 150 people</a> attended a presentation on the <a href="http://nec.amtrak.com/sites/default/files/PHL%20Industry%20Day%20Presentation%207.28.pdf">master developer partnership</a> in late July. </p>
<p id="jGlBHH">Here’s the timeline on the whole process: </p>
<ul>
<li id="TNcZpB">November 9, 2017 at 3 p.m.: RFQ deadline </li>
<li id="ADLqVk">Early 2018: Shortlist revealed </li>
<li id="qHDmdP">Spring 2018: Final RFP shortlist</li>
<li id="zLbiYf">Summer 2018: Final reviews and developer selection</li>
<li id="IXdHbZ">Fall 2018: Commercial close</li>
</ul>
<p id="ws7YA3">The 30th Street Station District Plan itself is a <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/3/16/11244554/30th-st-station-district-plan-timeline">35-year plan</a>.</p>
<ul><li id="WDCA">
<a href="https://procurement.amtrak.com/irj/portal/anonymous?NavigationTarget=navurl://c14b70706495ce1dac9a981cc142f8cc">RFQ #037-082317</a> [Amtrak]</li></ul>
<aside id="1CP1PR"><div data-anthem-component="newsletter" data-anthem-component-data='{"slug":"philly-curbed"}'></div></aside><p id="baWYeS"></p>
https://philly.curbed.com/2017/8/24/16190880/amtrak-rfq-30th-street-station-philadelphiaMelissa Romero2017-07-26T09:26:00-04:002017-07-26T09:26:00-04:00An updated timeline of 10 exciting Schuylkill River Trail projects
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/o9V9YQaaWCTWrzqx0z4AnEkt7r8=/315x0:5417x3827/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55891319/shutterstock_618666737.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Courtesy of Shutterstock</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>From South to Christian to the 30th Street Station Master Plan, there's a lot in the works</p> <p><i>Editor's Note: This article was originally published in January 2016 and has since been updated with the most recent information. </i></p>
<p>In January 2016, the Schuylkill River Development Corporation (SRDC) released its <a href="https://www.schuylkillbanks.org/sites/default/files/attachments/SRDC%20Strategic%20Plan%202016-2020.pdf">strategic plan for 2016-2020</a>, and if there's one thing we pulled out of the 41-page document it's that the Schuylkill River trail is going to look <em>very </em>different in 10 years. The plan laid out nearly a dozen projects that are in the works along the river, from the $6.6 million Bartram's Mile, <a href="http://philly.curbed.com/2017/4/24/15405434/bartrams-mile-trail-information-photos">which has since opened</a>, to the $4 billion <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/6/16/11954384/30th-street-station-district-plan-coverage">30th Street Station Master Plan</a> in 2026.</p>
<p>But a lot has changed since 2016. That $4 billion estimate for the 30th Street Station Master Plan is now up to $6.5 billion, for example.</p>
<p>Fortunately, some of projects that are currently under construction have since received state funding, helping push them to the finish line. And there have even been some updates since May 2017, when we last updated this timeline: The SRDC now has more information to share on long-awaited projects like the South to Christian connection and the Schuylkill Crossing at Grays Ferry.</p>
<p>Find out more about all of these projects and their projected completion dates below.</p>
<div id="curbed-schuylkill-river-timeline__graphic" data-analytics-label="curbed-schuylkill-river-timeline:1596" data-analytics-viewport="autotune"></div>
<p>
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
(function() { var l = function() { new pym.Parent( 'curbed-schuylkill-river-timeline__graphic', 'https://apps.voxmedia.com/at/curbed-schuylkill-river-timeline/'); }; if(typeof(pym) === 'undefined') { var h = document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0], s = document.createElement('script'); s.type = 'text/javascript'; s.src = 'https://cdnjs.cloudflare.com/ajax/libs/pym/0.4.5/pym.js'; s.onload = l; h.appendChild(s); } else { l(); } })();
// --></script>
</p>
https://philly.curbed.com/2016/1/21/10844788/schuylkill-river-trail-projects-timelineMelissa Romero2017-07-13T10:30:02-04:002017-07-13T10:30:02-04:00Station Plaza at 30th Street Station: What to expect at the future civic space
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/BWMs_WQAY1akzk3pvp4_4xrht-A=/76x0:841x574/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55691775/Screen_Shot_2017_07_13_at_9.51.27_AM.0.png" />
<figcaption>Station Plaza is being proposed as 30th Street Station’s grand civic space. | Renderings by FXFOWLE/!melk/ARUP</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here’s what you missed at the public open house</p> <p id="KUZ7eP">At an open house held at 30th Street Station Tuesday afternoon, a design proposal for Station Plaza, the grand civic space planned as part of the 30th Street Station District Plan, was revealed. </p>
<p id="MvflQq">The proposal, designed by <a href="http://www.fxfowle.com/projects/132/The%20Ashland/">FXFOWLE</a>, <a href="http://www.melk-nyc.com/">!melk</a>, and <a href="https://www.arup.com/">ARUP</a>, calls for increased pedestrian pathways, circular paving patterns, skylights on the sidewalk, and elevated tree planters surrounding 30th Street Station. The main goal of this reconfiguration, Amtrak says, is to provide the grand train station with the grand public space. </p>
<p id="9jdJLG">As one poster put it at the open house, “30th Street Station was never properly ‘grounded’ into Philadelphia’s urban fabric. A magnificent station deserves a spectacular plaza.” </p>
<p id="S7qI58">If you missed <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/5/15921620/30th-street-station-station-plaza-open-house">the open house</a>, the proposals and <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/StationPlazaSurvey_July2017">online survey</a> are now available on <a href="http://www.phillydistrict30.com/project-documents">the 30th Street Station District’s website</a> for public perusal. The <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/3/16/11244554/30th-st-station-district-plan-timeline">30th Street Station District timeline</a> says that early Station Plaza upgrades should begin around 2020 and be complete around 2029. </p>
<p id="9x4Buk">Below, we’ve highlighted some of the major features that are part of the proposed Station Plaza. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/O6pvrtscTRMr62tr_0qD6EJ5tkA=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8844957/Screen_Shot_2017_07_13_at_9.51.56_AM.png">
<figcaption>The view looking toward the West Portico plaza.</figcaption>
</figure>
<h3 id="4zHjhh">Circular paving patterns</h3>
<p id="RFJ1io">One of the proposed features that immediately pops out on the renderings are the circular patterns that dot the public plaza. Designer Jerry van Eyck, principal of !melk, says the polka dots are intentional, as they follow the path of the Amtrak train tracks below. </p>
<p id="GuN0ie">These circular patterns will be accompanied by some water fountain features that double as skylights, as well as built-in benches that will also function as tree planters. Van Eyck says, “These planters are quite smart because they provide seating but also drive the pedestrian flow.” </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/OWCJte9J57Aa0pBWBc2Z3BlYy0c=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8844959/Screen_Shot_2017_07_13_at_9.53.57_AM.png">
<figcaption>A rendering of the West Portico arrival entrance from Concourse Level and SEPTA.</figcaption>
</figure>
<h3 id="8YnOQU">A new West Portico entrance</h3>
<p id="wDEEdE">The addition of an entrance at the station’s West Portico is another proposed way to increase pedestrian access to and from the building. The entrance would include a stairwell down to the new underground SEPTA-Amtrak connection and retail concourse (more on that below). Joe Pikiewicz of FXFOWLE says the idea isn’t even a novel one: The original 1934 plans for 30th Street Station included an entrance at the West Portico. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/h0P8ZGpBlR4DuE__eU9f1vaQ7p8=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8844963/Screen_Shot_2017_07_13_at_9.51.44_AM.png">
<figcaption>This is the proposed view from Market Street. A water fountain would double as a skylight.</figcaption>
</figure>
<h3 id="dNxLVy">Fewer cars, more public space</h3>
<p id="AXhCXr">“One of our main charges was to solve the particular problems with taxis, cars, and drop-offs,” said Pikiewicz. Currently, there are multiple drop-off points around the station that cause conflicts between pedestrians and drivers. </p>
<p id="SiJniU">To fix this, the taxi queue will be below-grade and out of site, off to the northwest corner of the station. Drop-offs, meanwhile, will also be redirected to the north side, where the North Concourse will eventually be re-opened. </p>
<p id="SDRWdg">Jerry van Eycke describes the site plan, which wraps around the entire building, as two C-shaped areas: The Market Street side of the station will be dedicated toward the civic space, while the opposite C on the Arch Street side is considered the transportation zone.</p>
<p id="GABPkm">“The end goal is really trying to make this less of a place for cars to stop and drop off passengers and allow us to have more pedestrian space,” Pikiewicz said.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/gBTxQowiyrMi5Epl_dtHF8aTWsg=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8844965/Screen_Shot_2017_07_13_at_9.51.36_AM.png">
<figcaption>This is an east-west section that reveals the proposed underground retail concourse connecting SEPTA and Amtrak.</figcaption>
</figure>
<h3 id="nUUyVb">An underground SEPTA-Amtrak connection</h3>
<p id="cgHyFs">The design proposal includes an underground passage with retail that will connect the SEPTA station and Amtrak. Passengers would also be able to access this retail concourse via a stairway from the new West Portico Concourse.</p>
<p id="WeLHGO">This wasn’t exactly part of the Station Plaza proposal, but it was included in the site plan anyway. One of the biggest gripes about the current station is that there is no underground connection between the SEPTA station and 30th Street Station—passengers have to leave their respective station and a four-way intersection to make the switch. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Tuwm0q1AklmzwXWKSNdQVLuQewk=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8844877/Screen_Shot_2017_07_13_at_9.51.18_AM.png">
</figure>
<ul><li id="Kfrj9j">
<a href="http://www.phillydistrict30.com/s/30th_St_Station_Public_Open_House_Info_Boards_July_12_2017_Web.pdf">Station Plaza Open House Information Boards</a> [30th Street Station District]</li></ul>
<aside id="BbfW9N"><div data-anthem-component="newsletter" data-anthem-component-data='{"slug":"philly-curbed"}'></div></aside>
https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/13/15962148/30th-street-station-district-plan-station-plaza-renderingsMelissa Romero2017-07-05T10:32:02-04:002017-07-05T10:32:02-04:0030th Street Station to host open house for grand public space
<figure>
<img alt="A rendering of the 30th Street Station District master plan." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wA2gundjPDxXpvr65McurZ05sZ4=/574x0:5427x3640/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55574467/Station_Plaza_View_from_West.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Help pick a final plan for Station Plaza. | Renderings courtesy of Amtrak</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The proposed Station Plaza will surround all four sides of the train station</p> <p id="1GuWRJ">It’s been more than one year since we last heard anything about the <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/6/16/11954384/30th-street-station-district-plan-coverage">30th Street Station District Master Plan</a>. That’s when the <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/6/16/11953834/final-30th-street-district-plan-renderings">final master plan was released</a> and in turn went on to <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2017/1/17/14268002/30th-street-station-district-plan-aia-award-2017">win a 2017 AIA award</a>. </p>
<p id="NxFOXC">But on Wednesday, July 12, we’ll learn a little more, when 30th Street Station hosts yet another open house, this time concerning the planned public space dubbed Station Plaza that will surround all sides of the grand train station. </p>
<p id="kWezf4">The 30th Street Station District team wants community input and feedback on the current plans for what it’s calling Philly’s next “great civic space.” Like with the <a href="https://philly.curbed.com/2016/5/13/11670858/final-30th-street-station-district-plan-open-house">past open houses</a> held for the master plan, there were be several station plaza designs that the public will be able to peruse and consider—<a href="http://www.phillydistrict30.com/current-projects-1/">the official website states</a> that there are three alternatives.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eQHy11njz4A6osFGkxhZWdI4V2Q=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8799545/Station_Plaza_at_30th_Street.jpg">
<figcaption>Station Plaza at 30th Street.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="SJZkwT">The feedback gathered from the open house will then be used to help narrow the design concepts down to one. </p>
<p id="UWiW3T">This is the latest step in the $6.5 billion 30th Street Station District Plan, which calls for 18 million square feet of new development around 30th Street Station, a wealth of improvements and renovations to the train station, and 40 acres of public space. </p>
<p id="Cejjq2">According to the master plan’s tentative timeline, Station Plaza will be completed sometime between 2025 and 2030.</p>
<p id="TAraB4">The open house will be in the North waiting room of 30th Street Station on July 12 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-96WHr39Rlf8rh3dGl-l4NVVLQo=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/8799547/Station_Plaza_at_Market_Street.jpg">
<cite>Station Plaza at Market Street.</cite>
</figure>
<ul><li id="yusHpP">
<a href="http://www.phillydistrict30.com/upcomingevents/2017/7/12/station-plaza-public-open-house">Public Open House—30th Street Station</a> [Official]</li></ul>
https://philly.curbed.com/2017/7/5/15921620/30th-street-station-station-plaza-open-houseMelissa Romero2017-01-17T09:00:02-05:002017-01-17T09:00:02-05:00Philadelphia 30th Street Station District Plan wins 2017 AIA award
<figure>
<img alt="A rendering of the 30th Street Station District Plan at night." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FyLdOWlaH_amEV940v_LJRGEnts=/362x0:1791x1072/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52741787/Screen_Shot_2017_01_17_at_8.00.27_AM.1484337524.png" />
<figcaption>The 30th Street Station District Plan was awarded a 2017 AIA Award. | Rendering by Skidmore, Owings, & Merill</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>“Daring but achievable”</p> <p id="3x6iR4">Calling the designs “daring” but “achievable,” the 30th Street Station District Plan was recently given a 2017 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Award in regional and urban design. </p>
<p id="kRSxC0">The <a href="https://www.aia.org/showcases/26356-philadelphia-30th-street-station-district-pl?tab=library&tools=true">announcement was made</a> on Friday last week that AIA has recognized the work of <a href="http://www.som.com/">Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP</a>—and the long, long list of owners and partners—for being one of the “the best in urban design, regional and city planning, and community development.”</p>
<p id="BgqpSy">The award states: </p>
<blockquote><p id="rvLht0">All of the development concepts found in the plan are a direct response to universal stakeholder priorities about placemaking, preparing the historic station for the rest of the 21<sup>st</sup> century, and improving the connections to the city’s diverse neighborhoods and cultural assets. Achieving those goals will mean working among some of the most complex infrastructure found in a single area. [...] The final plan, daring in its scope but achievable in its details, will create a new city fabric through a tapestry of streets, open space, and infrastructure while sparking renewed excitement about the future of Philadelphia.</p></blockquote>
<p id="XkN5vB">The <a href="http://philly.curbed.com/2016/6/16/11953834/final-30th-street-district-plan-renderings">30th Street Station District Plan</a> is a massive project that has been years upon years in the making and includes the team of SOM, OLIN, multiple developers, SEPTA, Amtrak, and the City of Philadelphia. The goal of the project is to transform 30th Street Station and its surrounding neighborhood into a vibrant, mixed-use transportation hub with multiple public spaces.</p>
<p id="cEbsYH">Of course, it’s on a 30-year timeline, so it’ll be a long time until we see these renderings come to life. Still, it’s a good sign if the project is already winning accolades, right? </p>
<ul>
<li id="6vd91R">
<a href="https://www.aia.org/showcases/26356-philadelphia-30th-street-station-district-pl?tab=library&tools=true">Philadelphia 30th Street Station District Plan</a> [AIA Awards]</li>
<li id="Zn3eOo">
<a href="http://philly.curbed.com/2016/6/16/11953834/final-30th-street-district-plan-renderings">Finals plans for ambitious 30th Street Station District Plan unveiled</a> [Curbed Philly]</li>
</ul>
https://philly.curbed.com/2017/1/17/14268002/30th-street-station-district-plan-aia-award-2017Melissa Romero