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.

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

Welcome to The Porch.

Featuring lush plantings, movable furniture, custom swings, and seasonal pop-ups, The Porch offers a respite for travelers and visitors outside of America’s third busiest rail station.

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.

Since 2011, UCD has 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 will soon fold into Amtrak’s public-private partnership with Plenary Infrastructure Philadelphia (PIP). The project has an estimated capital construction value of $550 million.

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

UCD is dedicated to maintaining and programming The Porch until Amtrak and PlP officially assume ownership of the space, and we are excited to see how the future, permanent version of The Porch will build on the transformation we began in 2011.