MW02-A Journey to Chicken Hill: Seeking ETOD in Pottstown

Journey to Pottstown, PA, a historic borough 37 miles northwest of Philadelphia. In anticipation of proposed restoration of Amtrak rail service to Philadelphia along the Reading line, the Pottstown community is working collaboratively to apply ETOD (equitable transit-oriented development) principles to ensure that the return of passenger rail results in benefits for all residents. In spring 2023, the USDOT named Pottstown among the 64 communities across the nation to receive a Thriving Communities grant, providing technical assistance to help plan for transit-oriented development. Hear from local leaders, advocates and officials as you visit the Schuylkill riverfront, proposed redevelopment districts and educational institutions. You will experience the people and places of Chicken Hill, the setting of James McBride’s award-winning novel, “The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store.” Your visit  includes stops at landmark eateries such as Brunish’s World Famous Grocery and The Very Best.

Photo credit: Andrew Svekla