Philadelphia weighs three sites for new bus terminal
Planners presented updated concepts for locations at 30th and Arch, 15th and Vine, and 8th and Arch streets while seeking public input on the future of intercity bus service.
By Nikolai Morales ·
Philadelphia officials unveiled updated design concepts for three potential sites to house the city's permanent intercity bus station. The move comes as planners prepare to replace the temporary arrangement at the former Greyhound terminal on Filbert Street. The city is currently soliciting public feedback to weigh the specific benefits and challenges of each location before making a final decision.
Potential sites include the parking lot north of 30th Street Station, the intersection of 15th and Vine streets, and the block at 8th and Arch streets. Each option presents distinct engineering and logistical hurdles. The city aims to identify a location that can serve long-distance travelers while integrating with the surrounding neighborhood.
The current terminal operates under a 10-year lease between the Philadelphia Parking Authority and the city. This agreement includes a five-year renewal option. However, the lease is set to expire in about a decade, prompting the city to begin searching for a permanent solution well in advance of that deadline.
Public surveys conducted in the spring indicated a preference for the site near 30th Street Station. That location offers the most space for growth and provides easy connections to train services. Planners noted that building on top of existing railroad tracks would add complexity and cost to the project.
The 15th and Vine option sits on publicly owned land with easy highway access. The site is currently split by a parking garage, which would require modifications to surrounding streets to manage traffic flow. The third option involves placing buses underground at 8th and Arch streets. This design is close to federal facilities and could impact the Chinatown neighborhood. It also requires coordination with the African American Museum, which is already planning to relocate.
Mason Austin, director of transportation planning for the Philadelphia City Planning Commission, stated that the city needs to understand the specific issues associated with each site. Austin said, “If we were to move forward with site one, site two, site three, what were the main issues that we would need to grapple with and mitigate against in that process.” He added that the current site does not offer the opportunities for mixed-use development that planners desire.
Reg Thomas, a bus rider from New York, said the current station is safe but could be upgraded. He noted that more outlets and chargers would be a useful addition for travelers. The city is expected to publish a report with further analysis in December. Feedback on the locations can be sent to BusStation@phila.gov.
Philadelphia's long-distance bus service has relocated several times in recent years. After Greyhound departed its longtime terminal in 2023, buses moved to Market Street, then Spring Garden Street, and finally back to Filbert Street. The city is now seeking a stable, long-term home for the service.
