The building was vacant for three years.
"We want to make sure that it's welcoming and safe. We don't want it to be like the old terminal," said Rich Lazer, the PPA's executive director.
The building was shuttered in 2023 to make way for a proposed Sixers arena, a project that later collapsed, leaving the terminal empty.
In the meantime, riders were pushed to curbside stops across the city, including one at 2nd and Spring Garden streets.
"It's not a 'Welcome' to Philadelphia. It's not good for what we're trying to do for the tourists," said Alan Stewart of Overbrook.
The renovated facility includes three times the seating of the old terminal, new bathrooms and two additional bus bays, bringing the total to 11.
Lazer said 20 different operators will use the site, including Greyhound, Peter Pan and Flix.
The reconstruction cost more than $4 million, funded by a PennDOT grant and city dollars.
"There will be city capital money. We'll be paying that back once the buses come in and that revenue starts to come in," Lazer said.
The PPA aims to open the center by May 1. Bus riders say it's time.
"Long time coming that they got it fixed and up and running," said Patrice Green of North Philadelphia.
Mural Arts Philadelphia plans to install city-themed designs at the entrance. The PPA will hire greeters and security staff to support guest experience and safety.