Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-Pa.) and U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) have introduced bipartisan legislation to re-name Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station after former U.S. Representative William (Bill) H. Gray III.
Rep. Gray, who passed away last July at age 71, served as a member of Congress from 1978 to 1991, representing the 2nd Congressional District. While in Congress, Rep. Gray became the first African-American to chair the House Budget Committee and to serve as the Majority Whip. Rep. Gray was an outspoken leader on transportation issues and on efforts to end Apartheid in South Africa. Additionally, Rep. Gray served as a minister at Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia for more than 40 years.
“Throughout his life, Bill Gray was a minister and shepherd for his congregation, his constituents, historically black colleges, and all Americans in need of a strong voice,” Senator Casey said. “I recognized Bill’s work and accomplishments in 2012, when I honored him as part of our Black History Month celebration. Renaming 30th Street Station in his honor is a fitting way to recognize the vital contributions he made to Southeastern Pennsylvania, our entire nation and the world.”
“Rep. Gray’s leadership as both a member of Congress and as a pastor has left an indelible mark on generations of public servants,” said Senator Toomey. “In particular, Rep. Gray was a pillar of Philadelphia’s African American community who actively pursued transportation and infrastructure improvements. With this in mind, re-naming 30th Street Station would serve as a fitting tribute to this dedicated public servant and father.”
30th Street Station is Amtrak’s third busiest station, with nearly 4 million people passing through the station each year. Companion legislation to re-name 30th Street Station after Rep. Gray has been introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Chaka Fattah (D-Pa.) and has been co-sponsored by every member of the Pennsylvania House delegation.
