Jason Levin presents quarterly update on Westchester rail restoration progress

West Chester Borough is set to enhance its public transportation options with the ongoing development of the Westchester Metro, as outlined in a quarterly update presented by Jason Levin, chair of the Rail Restoration Committee, during the Borough Council Voting Session on July 16, 2025. This initiative aims to connect the borough to the SEPTA service at Wawa, significantly improving commuter access.

The proposed route will feature a shuttle service running from Market Street Station in West Chester to Wawa, where it will link with existing SEPTA lines. Levin emphasized the importance of the Market Street Station, which is expected to be a major hub for ridership, with plans for approximately 82 parking spaces designed with pervious surfaces to mitigate drainage and flooding issues in the area.

The update also included details about a new spur track that will connect to the SEPTA system, along with a pedestrian bridge over Route 1 to facilitate access to the Wawa platform. This bridge will provide a safe passage for commuters, ensuring a seamless transition between the two services. Levin noted that the design is still in progress, with adjustments being made based on feedback from SEPTA to avoid operational conflicts.

In addition to the transportation improvements, the committee plans to provide regular updates every three months to keep the community informed about the project's progress and any changes to the operational plans. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance public transit options in the region, ultimately aiming to reduce traffic congestion and promote sustainable commuting practices.

As the project moves forward, the Rail Restoration Committee is committed to addressing community concerns and ensuring that the Westchester Metro meets the needs of its future riders. The next steps will involve finalizing designs and securing necessary approvals to bring this vital transportation link to fruition.