People walking and relaxing under red umbrellas at The Porch at 30th Street Station, surrounded by greenery and urban landscaping.

The Porch at 30th Street Station

UCD’s first signature public space transformed an underutilized area into a lively urban oasis at one of Philadelphia’s busiest transportation hubs. On October 31st of 2025, UCD transferred stewardship of The Porch to Amtrak as part of their 30th Street Station District Plan. Read more here.

Visitors enjoy swings and greenery at The Porch at 30th Street Station, with people walking and relaxing in the vibrant public space.

The Porch.

The Porch featured lush plantings, movable furniture, custom swings, and seasonal pop-ups and served as a respite for travelers and visitors outside of America’s third busiest rail station from 2011 through 2025.

People relax on swings and enjoy outdoor seating under red umbrellas at The Porch at 30th Street Station, surrounded by lush greenery.
Origins.

Why we created The Porch.

We saw the potential to turn the space in front of William H. Gray III 30th Street Station into a welcoming gateway for residents and visitors. Our goal was to create an engaging, green, and accessible public space that promotes social interaction and economic activity.

Groups of people sit at picnic tables under red umbrellas at The Porch at 30th Street Station, surrounded by lush greenery and a lively atmosphere.
A Community Hub.

Over a Decade of Activation.

From 2011 through 2025, UCD infused The Porch with life through performances, arts and culture, and food options, transforming it into a community hub.

A person lounges on a swing surrounded by greenery at The Porch at 30th Street Station, with a bustling cityscape in the background.
Future Plans.

The Future of The Porch.

As part of a larger district plan, The Porch has folded into Amtrak’s public-private partnership with Plenary Infrastructure Philadelphia (PIP). The project has an estimated capital construction value of $550 million. Read more about the transition here.

A person lounges on a swing reading, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers at The Porch at 30th Street Station.

UCD maintained and programmed The Porch through October 31st, 2025, and we are excited to see how the future, permanent version of The Porch will build on the transformation we began in 2011.