ALLENTOWN, PA – December 18, 2025 – Senator Nick Miller (D-Lehigh/Northampton), the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, and Lehigh County Executive Phil Armstrong hosted a press conference to announce the next phase of the Lehigh Valley Passenger Rail Transportation Study.
This next phase lays the groundwork for a future project sponsor to advance feasibility studies and alternative analyses needed to restore passenger rail service to the region. The next phase will be supported through $400,000 in funding secured by Senator Nick Miller and Executive Armstrong, with $300,000 from the Commonwealth and $100,000 from the County. Phase 2 will take 12-16 months, according to the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission.
“To keep the Lehigh Valley at the forefront of the Commonwealth, we must invest in additional modes of transit that connect people to jobs, education, and opportunity as we continue to rapidly grow,” said Senator Nick Miller. “We need a comprehensive strategy that addresses congestion, travel times, and connectivity. Restoring passenger rail is about creating opportunity and improving quality of life for future generations. This study will help ensure we grow sustainably, benefiting all residents.”
“We’re incredibly grateful for this opportunity to determine the feasibility of passenger rail, as well as a preferred route and operator,” LVPC Executive Director Becky Bradley. “This is a long process, but this step is the only path for us to move forward.”
Phil Armstrong, Lehigh County Executive, emphasized on the importance of moving forward this project with the necessary local and state funding.
“For us to meet the transportation needs of the future we must provide the funding today,” said Armstrong.
To read the full Lehigh Valley Passenger Rail Study, visit LVPC’s website for the full analysis.