The SEPTA board voted to award HTNB Inc. a contract to advance engineering of the King of Prussia Rail extension of the Norristown High Speed Line.

"SEPTA has to look at ways to increase capacity and expand the system to meet current demand and support future growth," said SEPTA Board Chairman Pasquale T. Deon Sr. "The King of Prussia Rail project represents the type of investment that can transform mobility — figuratively and literally forming the backbone of an already thriving community."

This contract will progress the engineering and architectural design from the conceptual Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA), completing 15% of the total design (Phase I). An option is also incorporated to continue advancing engineering to 30% complete (Phase II). HTNB Inc. will be involved in taking into consideration the public's needs as the design is developed and finalized.

The total Phase I contract amount is $7.2 million, funded from an existing federal grant. The contract amount for the Phase II option is $27.3 million, subject to availability of funding.

The NHSL currently provides service between SEPTA's 69th Street and Norristown Transportation Centers, serving the Main Line area in Delaware and Montgomery counties, and connecting to Center City Philadelphia.