Willow Grove Train Station Open House Draws Huge Turnout

A few weeks ago, Upper Moreland Revitalization Task Force chairperson Karen Houck said she would be dissapointed if there weren't at least 100 people who attended the Willow Grove Train Station Feasibility Open House, which the task force and the Michael Baker Jr. Corporation hosted on June 23.

Attendance exceeded Houck's expectations.

According to Baker transportation planner Ryan Furgerson, transit development meetings do not typically attract a large gathering, making the over 125 open house attendees an indication of the enthusiastic interest in revitalizing Upper Moreland.

“It’s phenomenal, and I think that must mean there is a lot of opportunity and interest,” Furgerson said. “A lot of the people stayed until 8 or 8:30, which I don’t normally see that, as well.”

The Baker Corporation, a professional engineering and consulting firm, designed the open house to gather input about potentially moving the train station one block south from its current Davisville Road location.

Several stations were set up to cater to attendees’ level of interest.

One station allowed for in-depth discussion about the pros, cons and alternatives to moving the train station, utilizing a giant map of the revitalization area, while another station asked attendees to fill out a quick paper or online survey, which may still be accessed by visiting www.willowgrovestation.com.

Every station was facilitated by task force and baker representatives to field questions and provide information.

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