Penn Station Asset Planning & Analysis

Project overview

UrbanSense partnered with HDR Inc. on planning, analytical, and design development services for Penn Station, New York’s busiest transportation hub.

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Client:

amtrak gray logo

Location: New York, NY

Services:

Segment: Government

Industry:

A train on a railway track.
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Background

The goal of this project was to optimize Amtrak’s operational footprint, enhance the customer experience, accommodate short- and long-term growth, and help Amtrak utilize its resources to support Penn Reconstruction and the Gateway Program.

UrbanSense Approach

To provide tailored support for Amtrak’s initiatives, UrbanSense:

  • Collaboration Opportunities: Identified ways for Amtrak to partner with public sector and social service agencies to support unhoused populations.

  • Passenger Experience Evaluation: Assessed customer interactions to enhance overall satisfaction.

  • Project Approvals: Streamlined the approval process by coordinating stakeholders, permits, and execution requirements.

  • Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitated connections across key sectors:

    • Public sector: Elected officials, city, and state agencies.

    • Private sector: Real estate and asset owners.

    • Nonprofit sector: Homelessness service providers.

Crowds of people navigate the expansive interior of Penn Station, showcasing the vibrant atmosphere of the busy transit hub.

Outcomes

UrbanSense transformed Penn Station into a modern, efficient, and inclusive hub by optimizing operations, enhancing passenger experiences, and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders. These efforts ensured streamlined approvals, sustainable growth, and alignment with the Penn Reconstruction and Gateway Program.

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority WMATA Washington, DC A train approaches the station, ready to stop and allow passengers to board and disembark.

See Also:

WMATA Digital Signage Expansion

UrbanSense partnered with HR&A and WMATA (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) to create a coordinated capital investment and product roll-out program for expanding digital signage across Metro’s subway, bus, and rail assets.

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