Press release… Saucony Creek Brewing Company LLC, a microbrewery and restaurant/pub headquartered in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, announced today that they are in advanced negotiations with the South Central Transportation Authority (SCTA) to execute a lease for the Franklin Street Station in downtown Reading. The station will become Saucony’s second restaurant/pub operation. Final signing is expected by March 31, 2018 and opening by August 15, 2018.
The Franklin Street Station is a historic terra-cotta and terrazzo renaissance revival train station built in 1929. The station served as a key transportation hub for the Reading Railroad for 40 years and put the city on the Monopoly board. After the last train departed in 1981, it fell into disrepair. The station recently underwent a $5 million historic renovation to return the building to its full grandeur.
Franklin Street Station interior, following restoration in 2013. Source: bctv.org
Saucony Creek will maintain the historic appearance and ambiance of the station by using many of the existing fixtures and furniture. The station will undergo minor interior modifications to install new kitchen equipment in the station’s former kitchen and lunchroom area. Tables and a bar will be built in the main room that originally served as the passenger waiting area to provide seating for approximately 90 patrons. Additional outdoor seating will be available under the train platform canopy in summer months. The company believes in supporting and growing the local economy and features fresh ingredients from many area farms. The “Farm to Table” menu will offer a wide range of creative, eclectic, healthy, and traditional lunch and dinner meals that appeal to a wide audience.
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Reading’s extensive transportation and brewing history will be illustrated and celebrated by the addition of photographs, memorabilia, and artifacts throughout the building. Performances and events will be held at the location, including live music, art exhibits, festivals, etc. On site parking for more than 80 vehicles will be available. Saucony Creek is also exploring the possibility of hosting special weekend events that feature passenger train sightseeing tours departing from the Franklin Station.
