Amtrak is to carry out substantial improvements to Lewistown Station in Pennsylvania, the oldest station served by Amtrak.

Upgrading Lewistown Station is set to beging onTuesday, 7th April, and will include:

• A boarding platform to improve passenger access to trains.
• Updated LED lighting and signage for better visibility and improved safety.
• Better access to the station through a new passenger drop-off zone and two parking bays compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Upgraded waiting room and toilet facilities.
• A new air conditioning system in the station waiting area.

Lewistown also houses the extensive collection of the Pennsylvania Railroad Technical & Historical Society. Dave Evans president of the society and owner of the station building, commented that the society supports the updating of the oldest remaining Pennsylvania Railroad train station.

Lewistown is one of 134 station designs and 68 station construction projects being funded by Congress through the Federal Railroad Administration. Together, they form Amtrak’s ADA Stations Program to provide accessibility, with a target completion date of 2029, using funds provided by Congress through the Federal Railroad Administration.

Across the Amtrak network, 19 stations were brought into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act in the twelve months ending 30th September 2025. Another 50 stations are expected to be completed by 30th September this year, with a forecasted investment of $311 million.

Kevin Moore, board member of Western Pennsylvanians for Passenger Rail, added that Lewistown will enjoy more rail travel options with Amtrak’s plans to double the frequency of its Pennsylvanian service beginning in Fall 2026. These station improvements will ensure the safe and continued use of this valuable historic building.

As well as its programme of station improvements, Amtrak is introducing a fleet of new trains that will provide greater comfort, reliability, and more contemporary amenities, and more dining options on its long-distance trains.

“As Amtrak continues modernizing stations across the country, improving the customer experience remains at the heart of our efforts. The station and platform enhancements at Lewistown will create a more welcoming and functional environment for those traveling with us for years to come.”

Dr David Handera, Amtrak Vice President of Accessibility

“Since 1849, the Lewistown station has prominently shaped the transportation network of railroads, roadways and historic canals in the Keystone State, from a bustling trade center to an essential hub for freight and passenger rail in Rural Pennsylvania. This transformative investment in one of the nation’s oldest depots will honor the legacy of Lewistown and improve overall access, safety and accommodations in anticipation of the second Pennsylvanian passenger train this year.”

Senator Judy Ward, Chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee