Amtrak adding trains, cars for Pope Francis’ visit to Philly

Amtrak says it’s preparing for a spike in ridership during the Pope’s visit to the U.S. next month.

This story has been revised to show Amtrak has corrected its total for extra trains to 34, instead of 12.

Organizers say the volunteers will greet and direct pilgrims, provide translation services, aid guests with special needs and perform a variety of other roles.

The system will function on a traditional schedule September 21-25, with additional automobiles added whereas Francis is in New York and Washington.

From September 25-28, reservations will be required on all Acela Express, Northeast Regional and Keystone Service trains.

Pope Francis will travel to Washington, D.C. from Santiago, Cuba on September 22.

Amtrak, New Jersey Transit and some SEPTA trains will operate from the lower-level main concourse. Specific boarding procedures and recommended points of entry will be announced at a later date. Amtrak says station loos shall be closed however outdoors loos will probably be obtainable. Food court eateries will be open and accessible from the Market Street entrance. Additional information will be made in the weeks to come and posted to, Amtrak.com/papalvisit, which will be updated regularly.