Amtrak announced the master developer that will lead New York Penn Station’s renovation: Halmar International, a New York–based heavy civil construction management firm, per a statement. 

“Penn Transformation Partners,” Halmar’s consortium, includes PAU; and ASTM, an Italian group. 

The masterplan by Halmar, PAU, and ASTM will bring a new grand entrance on Eighth Avenue to a new train hall, Amtrak said.

Madison Square Garden will remain in place, however it will receive new cladding “for a classical look,” Amtrak affirmed, without getting into specifics. This suggests that the previous design by PAU will be replaced.

No renderings or visuals were shared with today’s announcement.

Federal Railroad Authority administrator David Fink said the “new station will be an architectural icon” able to accommodate “more passengers during critical rush periods.”

“Cramped, decrepit walkways” will be replaced with “open, beautiful concourses.” And retail and wayfinding upgrades aim to enhance the passenger experience.

Track capacity will be expanded thanks in part to the “introduction of at least limited through-running on the regional rail network.”

“Not only is the winning redesign for New York Penn Station beautiful, but the changes to the station will more importantly increase the capacity of what is already America’s busiest transit hub, allowing commuters and visitors alike to reach their destinations more easily,” said U. S. Transportation Secretary Deputy Steve Bradbury.

Andy Byford, Amtrak special advisor, oversaw the competitive procurement process with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.

Byford and Duffy announced the competition last August. 

Halmar, PAU, and ASTM were shortlisted in January, as was Fengate Capital with SOM, Grimshaw, and Arup; and Macquarie Capital.

Next, preliminary design will start. Byford and Duffy said they want shovels in the ground by the end of 2027.