PennDOT plans expansion, makeover of Harrisburg transportation center

(Harrisburg) — A transportation hub in Harrisburg is getting a makeover over the next year or so.

Plans are coming together to expand the Harrisburg Transportation Center.

PennDOT says the center in the city’s downtown should expand into space surrounding it, and have three options.

They’re proposing the project go in the old post office behind the center, the former home of the Patriot-News, or a vacant lot next to railroad tracks.

Amtrak trains and Capital Area Transit, Greyhound and Susquehanna Trailways buses keep the center busy.

Democratic state Representative Patty Kim of Dauphin County says she sees a lot of potential.

“I’m really really excited about this project. I think it could change the downtown area and the convenience for our residents in such a big way,” says Rep. Kim.

PennDOT recently held a public meeting to get input on the three expansion options for the center.

Kim says she’s encouraged by the process so far.

“They asked the residents what they wanted to see first. It has to work for our residents before the visitors and our out-of-town guests. We want it to work for everybody, but getting their say, and seeing it on paper, was really encouraging,” she adds.

A $15 million renovation is also set for the station.

It’ll include energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, new roofs and windows, and a building stabilization.

That work is expected to wrap up by the end of next year.