LEWISTOWN — One of the oldest passenger rail depots in the nation is about to enter a new era.

Amtrak is preparing to launch a major renovation of the Lewistown Junction Train Station, a project that will modernize the historic depot while preserving its character and improving accessibility for the thousands of riders who pass through each year.

Construction was scheduled to begin in early April, marking the start of a $3.5 million federal investment that will reshape the station platform, waiting area and passenger access points, according to Amtrak’s website.

The Lewistown station, served daily by Amtrak’s Pennsylvanian route, has long been a fixture of the Juniata River Valley. Built in the 1800s and considered the oldest depot still served by Amtrak, the station remains a vital link for local travelers, including the region’s large Amish community and Penn State students who rely heavily on rail service. The building also houses the extensive collections of the Pennsylvania Railroad Technical and Historical Society, which owns the structure.

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

The project will bring sweeping upgrades to the station grounds. Plans include a new 250-foot concrete boarding platform built eight inches above the top of the rail, improving accessibility for passengers with disabilities and families with small children. Updated LED lighting and new signage will enhance visibility and safety. A redesigned passenger drop-off zone and two ADA-compliant parking stalls will improve access to the station, while the waiting room will receive a new entrance door, new windows and a fully renovated ADA-compliant restroom.

The station’s HVAC system will also be replaced, improving comfort for visitors and for the Pennsylvania Railroad Technical and Historical Society, which maintains its archives and displays inside the building.

Dave Evans, president of the society, said the group is eager to see the improvements move forward.

“The society is excited to support this initiative to update the oldest remaining Pennsylvania Railroad train station to modern levels of safety and passenger support for years to come,” Evans said.

Local leaders echoed that enthusiasm, noting the station’s importance to the region’s transportation network and its historic identity.

“I can hardly find the words to express my excitement over this news,” said Lewistown Mayor Deborah Bargo. “The impact on our large Amish community, who rely heavily on rail as their preferred mode of travel, will be tremendous, as will the benefits for our Penn State students. Our station, originally built in the 1800s, still carries the charm and character of a bygone era. Many thanks to everyone who helped make this possible.”

State officials also praised the investment. Sen. Judy Ward, who chairs the Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee, said the project honors the station’s legacy while preparing it for the future.

“Since 1849, the Lewistown Station has prominently shaped the transportation network of railroads, roadways and historic canals in the Keystone State,” Ward said. “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.”

The improvements come at a pivotal time for passenger rail in central Pennsylvania. Amtrak plans to double the frequency of its Pennsylvanian service beginning in fall 2026, a move expected to increase ridership and expand travel options for residents.

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

The project is part of Amtrak’s broader effort to bring stations nationwide into full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Across the network, 19 stations were upgraded in the 12 months ending Sept. 30, with another 50 targeted for completion in the next fiscal year. Amtrak’s ADA Stations Program is currently advancing 134 station designs and 68 construction projects, with a goal of reaching 100 percent accessibility by 2029.

For the Juniata River Valley, the investment represents more than infrastructure. It is a commitment to preserving a landmark that has anchored the community for generations while ensuring it remains relevant and accessible for the next.

“The Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to see this important investment in the Lewistown Station, a historic gateway to our region,” said Rhonda Kelley, the chamber’s executive director. “Reliable and accessible passenger rail service plays a vital role in connecting our communities, supporting local businesses and attracting visitors. These improvements not only enhance safety and accessibility for travelers but also reinforce the value of preserving our historic assets while modernizing infrastructure for future generations.”

Construction at the station is expected to continue through spring 2027. Amtrak will provide updates on customer impacts and station access throughout the project.

Visit by famed Big Boy on July 8

Lewistown’s rail calendar will grow even busier this summer when Union Pacific’s famed Big Boy No. 4014 makes its first-ever visit to central Pennsylvania.

The world’s largest operating steam locomotive will stop at Roundhouse Road on Wednesday, July 8, from 12:45 to 1:15 p.m., part of a coast-to-coast tour celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. The brief whistle-stop is expected to draw large crowds of rail fans eager to see the 600-ton locomotive in motion, adding another moment of rail history to a community already steeped in it.

Keep safety top of mind

Stay back at least 25 feet from all railroad tracks. This includes drones.

Railroad tracks, trestles, yards and the right of way are private property — do not trespass.

Never assume tracks are abandoned or inactive — always expect a train.

Be a safe and considerate driver — do not pace the train.

Be aware of the environment. Big Boy will be positioned in a working rail setting with uneven walking surfaces that may create accessibility challenges.