Recently, AECOM announced the completion of The (Long Island Railroad) LIRR concourse renovation project at New York’s Pennsylvania Station. However, the construction firm also worked alongside Skanska and SOM to modernize LIRR’s 33rd Street train hall corridor. They transformed the most heavily used concourse of America’s busiest train station to include both visual and functional improvements.
Penn District Station Developer awarded the $395 million LIRR concourse renovation project to AECOM and SOM in 2020. They aimed to modernize and widen LIRR’s 33rd Street train hall corridor, while ensuring uninterrupted daily operations at the train station. The development team worked on expanding the height and width of the LIRR concourse.
Development team for the LIRR concourse renovation project
Skanska was the Design Builder for the LIRR concourse renovation project, while AECOM served as Designer of Record. Additionally, AECOM provided design, engineering, vertical transportation, and project management services, collaborating closely with lead architect Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).Â
The East End Gateway was the initial phase of the LIRR concourse renovation project which commenced in 2020. According to the developers, these renovations finally brought sunlight to the subterranean concourse for the first time in decades. As a result, the concourse now boasts a new luminous ceiling that surrounds the entrance. It also complements the daylighting and creates an inviting atmosphere.
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The development team commenced phase II of the LIRR concourse renovation in January 2021 and eventually achieved substantial completion in March 2023. It was a 27 month design-build project, which encompassed both the design and construction of the reimagined concourse. Now the newly improved LIRR’s 33rd Street train hall corridor has been widened, and features raised ceiling heights with upgraded lighting. In addition, the concourse offers new digital information screens, improved mechanical and electrical systems, along with new architectural finishes
Furthermore, the LIRR concourse renovation project enhances safety and ADA access through the installation of a new elevator on 33rd Street. Therefore, it provides easy access from the street to the concourse. In addition, visitors can also utilize platforms at the concourse with rebuilt stairs and handrails. The property also includes new enclosures for fire protection and a replacement elevator.
