NJ Transit’s plan for $55-million Elizabeth Station restoration project

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor

Transportation Commissioner and New Jersey Transit Board Chairman Jamie Fox and NJ Transit Executive Director Veronique Hakim unveiled the preliminary design plans for a $55-million restoration of Elizabeth Station.

 

The project includes construction of a new station building, new elevators and stairs, vendor space and reconstruction of the passenger platforms. The project will be funded through state and federal sources.

“This project is a prime example of New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s commitment to invest in our public transportation system,” said Commissioner Fox. “Working with our partners at Amtrak, which owns the Northeast Corridor, this station will be primed to promote economic development in a city that continues to work hard at improving the quality of life for its residents.”

“The reconstruction of Elizabeth Station will provide a state-of-the-art facility for the residents and riders that also reflects the character of the historic business district” stated Executive Director Hakim. “We recognize the importance of this facility to passengers on the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast lines and are committed to providing a safe and modern facility.”

The design of the station includes a two-story station building with a street-level ticket office, waiting room and vendor space. New, extended high-level train platforms will accommodate longer, 12-car trains and the platforms will feature covered, heated and air-conditioned waiting areas. The station will include upgraded passenger information and security systems.

NJ Transit has coordinated the design package with Amtrak to accommodate Amtrak’s future plans to add a fifth track to the Northeast Corridor, which affects station platform placement and final design approval. Upon final Amtrak approval, NJ Transit will procure a design-build contractor to construct the project, with an expected completion date in 2018.

Elizabeth Station serves NJ Transit’s Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Rail Lines, as well as local bus service. The Elizabeth Station serves an average of 7,526 weekday passenger trips, with 113 daily trains utilizing the station.

 

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