Conceptual passenger concourse modernization project for Union Station. Photo: courtesy of Amtrak/KGB design studio/GRIMSHAW.
Amtrak has unveiled two conceptual renderings of a near-term comprehensive renovation of the concourse in Washington, D.C.'s, Union Station that will add approximately 20,000 square feet of new passenger space, almost doubling the concourse’s current capacity. The Concourse Modernization project will be the first set of improvements as part of the Washington Union Station’s 2nd Century plan.
The concourse design will include new architectural features and natural light elements along with upgrades to passenger amenities, including new restrooms, boarding gates, seating and a ClubAcela lounge. The result will improve accessibility, circulation, wayfinding and multimodal connectivity.
Built in 1907, Union Station serves as a hub for VRE, MARC and Amtrak plus Metrorail and Metrobus. The station is currently operating beyond its capacity, particularly during rush hours and peak travel times. Implementing near-term solutions to gain capacity and alleviate congestion will maintain safe and efficient station operations.
Construction for Amtrak’s Concourse Modernization project will start spring 2016, including the relocation of heating and ventilation units. Phased construction is expected to begin in 2017.
“The advancement of this project is a significant milestone for Union Station’s 2nd Century plan,” said Stephen Gardner, Amtrak’s executive vice president of Northeast Corridor Business Development. “It will vastly improve passenger comfort and accessibility with a modern and reconfigured concourse area benefiting Amtrak, VRE and MARC passengers. This work and other planned improvements will transform Union Station’s capacity and performance, befitting the vital regional gateway and civic hub the Station has become since its redevelopment in 1988.”
Washington Union Station’s 2nd Century plan is an improvement initiative comprised of multiple projects in coordination with the Union Station Redevelopment Corporation (USRC), the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and private real estate developer Akridge. The plan seeks to triple passenger capacity and double train capacity over the next 20 years.
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is currently planning for a new Metrorail staircase and new First Street entrance to bring passenger improvements to the western portion of the concourse.
Shyam Kannan, WMATA managing director, said, “As our busiest Metrorail station, customer-focused improvements, including safety and accessibility upgrades, are critical at Union Station. We look forward to working alongside Amtrak to implement these programs.”
Separate from the Concourse Modernization Project, FRA is currently leading an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Union Station Expansion Project to review long-term redevelopment alternatives.