Gov. Christie’s proposed FY 12 budget includes $3.5 billion in NJDOT and NJ TRANSIT
Written by jrood
The New Jersey Department of Transportation has proposed a FY 12 capital program that provides for robust investment in the state's transportation network and promotes long-term economic growth. The $3.5 billion program represents the first year of a five-year Transportation Capital Plan that Governor Chris Christie announced in January. That plan puts New Jersey on the path toward fiscal health by prioritizing projects, decreasing borrowing and increasing pay-as-you-go cash funding. The proposal, which outlines spending priorities totaling $2.3 billion for NJDOT and nearly $1.2 billion for NJ TRANSIT, reflects the Governor's commitment to improve the safety and functionality of a multi-modal transportation network that provides mobility for millions of New Jersey residents and visitors every day. "Renewing New Jersey isn't just a slogan, it's the product of cohesive policies that attract businesses, create new jobs and control taxes," Governor Christie said. The FY 12 program relies primarily on federal and state sources for funding. Under the proposed program, state support from the Transportation Trust Fund and the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey would amount to $1.6 billion, of which $978 million would be directed to NJDOT and $622 million to NJ TRANSIT. Federal support amounts to $1.66 billion, of which $1.17 billion would go to NJDOT and $497 million to NJ TRANSIT. NJDOT and NJ TRANSIT rail-related highlights • NJDOT multimodal programs, covering maritime, freight, rail and bicycle and pedestrian initiatives, would receive $162 million. • NJ Transit's $1.164 billion capital program addresses New Jersey's mass transit needs by funding state-of-good-repair projects, preventive maintenance, local programs and debt service. • Funds track replacement projects. • Supports railroad signal system upgrades. • Invests in overhead power line and electrical substation upgrades. • Provides for security improvements. • Funds rail station and bus terminal improvements. The FY 12 Transportation Capital Program has been submitted to the members of the Legislature for their review and is being shared with the state's three Metropolitan Planning Organizations, whose input will help shape the final program that will be voted on by the Legislature as part of New Jersey's budget for FY 12.
