SEPTA’s proposed King of Prussia expansion of the Norristown High-Speed Line recently received a green light from the FTA to enter the project development phase, writes David Peter Alan for the Railway Age.

The approval comes nearly five decades after the expansion was first proposed and represents a significant step towards it becoming a reality.

It is also expected to provide a substantial mobility improvement for Philadelphia and its collar counties throughout the 2030s and beyond.

The extension would go four miles west from the Norristown Line by branching off at Hughes Park.

This would add two new stations close to the King of Prussia Mall two more further west, near the sprawl of commercial buildings.

The cost of the project is currently estimated at around $2.1 billion and is expected to be completed within eight years.

It is currently being promoted vigorously by both SEPTA and McCormick Taylor, a large engineering and construction firm. The proposal is also sponsored by local business leaders and elected officials who are hoping that the project will bring more business to the area.

Read more about SEPTA’s King of Prussia extension in the Railway Age.