SEPTA Plans To Bring Regional Rail Back To Coatesville

CHESTER COUNTY, PA — SEPTA has announced that it is restoring regional rail service to Coatesville.

Chester County announced a $1 million grant on Thursday to help build a train station and parking garage for the new final stop on the Paoli/Thorndale line.

Officials are hopeful the extension helps to spur economic growth in the area.

"Partnerships are paramount for the growth and development of Coatesville, and we are pleased to be part of that," Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Michelle Kichline said in a statement. "What I see is a movement where we are all working together in a direction that is revitalizing Coatesville, and that importantly, is enabling the residents and businesses of the city to take advantage of the revitalization."

The line previously ran out to Coatesville, but ceased operations in 1996.

Service is expected to begin when construction on the new station is completed. PennDOT officials estimate construction will take about three years.

"I am over the moon that Septa service is coming back to Coatesville, a community that has long deserved regional rail service to Philadelphia," Downingtown Mayor Josh Maxwell said in a statement. "This investment is great news for Chester County and better news for the redevelopment of Chester County's only city."

Commissioner Kathi Cozzone said that the extension would help bring more jobs, businesses, and developments to the area.

Other major projects currently ongoing in Coatesville include a $1.7 redevelopment of the 1st Avenue and Lincoln Highway intersection, as well as a $750,000 grant to fund a new Chester County OIC office and repairs on the library.