Schuylkill River Passenger Train Authority Project Moves Ahead

PHOENIXVILLE, PA —The Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority voted Monday to solicit proposals for a consultant to prepare plans to restore passenger rail service in the Reading to Philadelphia corridor.

Thomas E. Frawley, the executive director, said the authority has a $750,000 federal grant that can be used for the development of the passenger train project.

Frawley said the Federal Railroad authority recommended proceeding with the development plan for the project before a decision is reached on the authority's application to participate in a federal corridor train transportation program.

The authority consists of representatives from Berks, Chester and Montgomery counties working to secure federal funding and other contracts to restore passenger train service.

In the meantime, the authority is expected to hear in September if its applicated to participate in the Federal Rail Administration Corridor Identification and Development Program has been accepted.

The application is for an intercity passenger rail with stops in Reading, Pottstown, Phoenixville, Philadelphia, and New York.

Jim Gerlach, an authority member, said that all three communities have been receptive to having train stops.

Scott France, executive director of the Montgomery County Planning Commission, Amtrak officials are in support of the passenger rail plan.