NJ Transit marks completion of Somerville Station

Transportation Commissioner and NJ Transit Board Chairman James Simpson joined NJ Transit Executive Director James Weinstein and Somerville Mayor Brian Gallagher on August 24, to mark the completion of major improvements to Somerville Station, including high-level platforms that provide accessibility to customers with disabilities and amenities that make the station more convenient for all customers. "Rebuilding Somerville Station demonstrates Governor Chris Christie's commitment to improving access to public transportation for all New Jersey residents and creates an asset that the Borough can use to promote long-term economic development," said Commissioner Simpson. "With Somerville designated as our 22nd Transit Village last year, the newly rebuilt station is a fitting complement to the Borough's transit-oriented development efforts." In March 2009, the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors authorized a $15.3 million contract with Terminal Construction Co. of Wood-Ridge, N.J., to rebuild the train station, including construction of two new 710-foot-long high-level platforms with canopies and heated shelters, a climate-controlled inbound waiting room with a ticket agent office and restrooms, two new elevator cabs, ramps, stairs and a head house for the pedestrian tunnel entrance. In addition, the existing elevator shafts, pedestrian tunnel, tunnel stairs and exterior stairs to South Bridge Street were rebuilt. Closed-circuit television cameras, new ticket vending machines and electronic customer information signs were also installed. "The new Somerville Station ensures accessibility for customers with disabilities and enhances comfort and convenience for everyone who uses it," said Executive Director Weinstein. "The completion of this work also brings NJ TRANSIT one step closer to completing our initiative to make ADA upgrades at 35 key commuter rail stations." Located on the Raritan Valley Line, Somerville Station provides about 1,300 customer trips on a typical weekday.