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When 25,000 people are competing for just 1,164 parking spots, it becomes a commuter nightmare. But passengers’ desire for additional spaces isn’t a pipe dream, either. Next month, Amtrak and developer Berwind Property Group plan to expand a parking deck that services Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station.



The proposed nine-story, 1,525-car parking garage will be financed by $50 million in tax-exempt bonds issued by the Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority. Part of the garage will be built on a portion of the existing parking deck, and will net 973 more spots, according to a prepared statement.



Amtrak also plans to add a pedestrian walkway above the street from the garage directly into the station.



The parking garage is part of a 50-acre site designated a "Keystone Opportunity Zone," where local officials want to increase business and revitalize neighborhoods. A 32-story office building is proposed adjacent to the parking garage.



The project is expected to take 15 months to complete. The 30th Street Station serves 3.8 million people annually, making it one of the busiest Amtrak stations, second only to Pennsylvania Station in New York City.