Groundbreaking at New Gettysburg Transit Center

Gettysburg, PA – The York Adams Transportation Authority broke ground on Wednesday, October 19, for its new Gettysburg Transit Center. The Authority, which manages and operates Freedom Transit, will construct the 1,500 square foot, one and half story building at the former Petro fueling station adjacent to the Historic Gettysburg Railroad Station.

Freedom Transit began the fixed route service three years ago as a demonstration “Transit in the Parks” initiative. Ridership has continued to climb and trips increased by a total of 84% this year as compared to last. “The need to cement our transit footprint is even stronger as the 150th celebration of the Civil War approaches and transportation infrastructure will be critical,” comments Darlene Brown, York Adams Transportation Authority board member.

The new building was designed to incorporate prominent architectural features of the adjacent train station with the intent of creating a visual connection as a smaller annex structure. “The goal was really to preserve the rich charm this historic town is noted for and that’s reflected in the design aesthetic,” explains Brown.

Site enhancements include streetscape improvements with associated landscaping and pedestrian scale lighting, storm water management rain gardens to improve runoff water quality, plus four bus bays. The southerly property boundary will be improved to incorporate a connection with a planned bike path facility and other site amenities including, lighting, landscaping and a bike rack. Ground mounted wayfinding signage will also be provided and a heritage sign presenting the history of the former Sheads Buehler Building that used to occupy the property.

The interior of the Transit Center utilizes a mixture of stone and natural materials to complement the inner design of the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center.

The Gettysburg Transit Center will act as a cornerstone of the Gettysburg experience, to provide the visitor and resident the ability to connect to the entire community. This community anchor will complement the adjacent Welcome Center by not only providing transit information, but restroom facilities for the public as well.

Funding for the project was provided by the Federal Transit Administration, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Pennsylvania Department of Commerce and Economic Development.

Premier Construction Group, Inc., is the general contractor for the project. Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, Inc., is the project management firm and architect.

The York Adams Transportation Authority, dba rabbittransit, is a regional public transportation provider, offers a variety of transportation services to the residents of York, Adams and Northumberland Counties. Nearly 7,000 people depend on rabbittransit each day to get to work, medical facilities, school and other life-sustaining activities. rabbittransit is dedicated to helping all residents in the region get to where they want to go.