Event Center
Our Franklin Station location is a private event venue. This historic space can be rented meetings, celebrations, parties and other private events up to 150 to 200 people depending on event type. Contact us for additional details regarding menu and beverage information.

The Building
The Franklin Street Station building was dedicated in 1931 by the Reading Company for use as a passenger station. It was a significant Reading transportation hub until it was closed in 1983 when ridership declined to unprofitable levels. BARTA took ownership of the extremely decayed and neglected building and spent years arranging federal, state and local grants and funding to restore the historic building. Renovations were completed in 2013 and included a new roof, upper interior walls and heating and plumbing. The terra cotta walls, terrazzo floor and all windows are original to the building. The bench seating is a reproduction of the original benches. The renovated station was briefly used as a BARTA bus transportation center and then closed around 2015.

In 2018, Saucony Creek signed a lease with BARTA to occupy the unused station. We did minimal changes to the building with the goal of respecting the history and grandeur of the space. Changes included removing one long bench, constructing the bar, and installing a commercial kitchen in the former Lunch Room. We opened in August of 2019 and are thrilled to share this historic space with you. BOok your event today!