NJ TRANSIT is taking a major step toward developing an environmentally friendly and high-capacity public transportation link, with the Board of Directors approving over $22.2 million for the next design phase of the Secaucus-Meadowlands Transitway extension to Jersey City.
The authorization extends an existing contract with HNTB for $22,283,241.90, plus contingencies, to complete the engineering and design work for Phase 2—Transitway Jersey City.
The overall Transitway project has a dual purpose:
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Increase Service Capacity: Improve efficiency for moving customers between the Meadowlands Sports and Entertainment Complex (including MetLife Stadium) and Secaucus Junction Station for major events.
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Create New Service Corridor: Establish a brand-new transit service corridor in one of North Jersey’s most densely populated areas, utilizing existing NJ TRANSIT right-of-way.
Phase 2 specifically focuses on creating a dedicated, non-rail right-of-way between Secaucus and Jersey City, featuring multiple stops. This route is strategically planned for the adaptive reuse of the former Boonton rail line and the Bergen Arches.
NJ TRANSIT President and CEO Kris Kolluri praised the project’s advancement.
“This critical initiative supports New Jersey’s economic growth while providing new transportation options for residents and visitors as they enjoy the state’s premier sports and entertainment destinations,” he said.
NJDOT Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chair Fran O’Connor added that the project will provide “the kind of superior service befitting our customers and the Meadowlands Sports and Entertainment Complex, a world-class entertainment venue.”
A key feature of the Transitway extension is its focus on sustainability and future technology. The planned transit modes will be configured to be either implemented with zero-emission vehicles from the start or to be readily transitioned to zero-emission vehicles in the future. Furthermore, the design is intended to be scalable to fully autonomous vehicle operation as industry advances permit.
Phase 1 of the Transitway project, which focuses on the Secaucus to Meadowlands segment to boost capacity for large events, kicked off in 2021 with conceptual development and preliminary design work. This action advances the critical second phase that will connect the transit hub at Secaucus Junction to downtown Jersey City, bringing a new, modern transit option to thousands of North Jersey residents.
