Raritan River Bridge: NJ Transit Begins Major Replacement Project

NJ Transit Advances Raritan River Bridge Replacement Project with $444M Contract. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

NJ Transit has launched the Raritan River Bridge replacement to modernize this critical rail link. The project will ensure safer, more reliable service for thousands of daily commuters.

Why the Raritan River Bridge Replacement Matters

The aging 116-year-old bridge, built in 1908, no longer meets modern infrastructure demands. The replacement project will introduce a new vertical lift design capable of withstanding extreme weather.

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NJ Transit awarded Skanska Koch a $444 million contract to complete the Raritan River Bridge. The new structure features a two-track movable span located slightly off the original alignment.

The current bridge, the only rail link for 17 of 20 NJCL stations, connects Newark and Manhattan. It suffered significant damage during Superstorm Sandy in 2012, causing weeks of service disruptions.

Key Features of the New Raritan River Bridge

The vertical lift section will accommodate marine traffic while improving train operational efficiency. Positioned between Perth Amboy and South Amboy, the bridge will reconnect seamlessly with existing NJCL mainline tracks.

Skanska Koch will construct the bridge alongside installing communication systems, signaling, and overhead catenary. This ensures the Raritan River Bridge integrates seamlessly into NJ Transit’s growing rail network.

The project is primarily funded by a Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant exceeding $446 million. This federal investment highlights the importance of resilient infrastructure to New Jersey’s economy and commuters.

NJ Transit President Kevin S. Corbett emphasized that the new Raritan River Bridge addresses critical resiliency challenges. It strengthens NJ Transit’s preparedness for future extreme weather events and enhances commuter reliability.

“This replacement ensures operational efficiency and reliability for thousands of NJCL passengers,” Corbett stated.

Enhancing Safety and Resilience

The bridge’s new design resolves vulnerabilities exposed during past storms like Superstorm Sandy. By adopting a vertical lift structure, it improves weather durability while supporting marine navigation.

Work on the bridge’s approaches began under a separate contract awarded in June 2020. These efforts laid the groundwork for integrating the new Raritan River Bridge with NJ Transit’s mainline tracks.

Upon completion, commuters will experience fewer delays and improved reliability on the North Jersey Coast Line. The project reflects NJ Transit’s commitment to modernizing its aging infrastructure with cutting-edge solutions.

Skanska Koch brings modern construction techniques to ensure the project meets deadlines and performance standards. The new bridge design aligns with NJ Transit’s long-term vision for sustainable, efficient rail service.

By replacing the outdated bridge, NJ Transit guarantees a robust connection that serves both passenger needs and marine traffic. This transformative project positions NJ Transit’s network for future growth and reliability.

The Raritan River Bridge replacement project delivers safer, faster, and more resilient rail service. NJ Transit continues investing in essential infrastructure to enhance commuter experience and drive economic development.

Source: www.railway-technology.com

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