Earlier today, Mayor J. Christian Bollwage was joined by several elected officials at the unveiling of the new project design for the $55 million dollar reconstruction of the Elizabeth Midtown Train Station.
Mayor Bollwage was joined by U.S. Senator Robert Menendez and U.S. Senator Cory Booker, Congressman Albio Sires, State Senator Raymond J. Lesniak, Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, Freeholder Sergio Granados, Freeholder Vernell Wright, Freeholder Bette Jane Kowalski, Council President Patricia Perkins-Auguste, Councilman-At-Large Manny Grova, Jr., Councilman Kevin Kiniery and Councilman Carlos Torres, as well as Transportation Commissioner and NJ Transit Board Chairman Jamie Fox and NJ Transit Executive Director Veronique “Ronnie” Hakim.
“From improving and strengthening transportation services to supporting development efforts and population growth, this project will transform the Midtown Station into a state-of-the-art rail destination,” said Mayor Bollwage. “This initiative will not only completely revitalize the existing structure, but it will also create new jobs and add increased accessibility, security and function to one of New Jersey’s busiest train stations. I would like to thank our dedicated partners who have worked tirelessly on this project, honing ideas, defining concepts and shaping the design to maximize space, resources and results.”
The Elizabeth Station Reconstruction Project includes the design and construction of a new two-story station building with a street-level ticket office, waiting room, as well as new office and retail space. It will include new, extended high-level train platforms that will accommodate longer, 12-car trains and the platforms will feature covered, heated and air conditioned waiting areas for its users. The station will include new elevators and stairs, upgraded passenger information and security systems. The westbound plaza entrance will be highlighted by a marquee façade, new stairs and new vendor space. NJ TRANSIT and the City of Elizabeth is working together to incorporate art into the design of the station. The project will be funded through a combination of state and federal sources.
“The reconstruction of Elizabeth Station will provide a state-of-the-art facility for the residents and riders that also reflect 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.”
With nearly 8,000 rail passengers each day, improving services, experiences and connections at the Midtown Train Station remain one of the City of Elizabeth’s main priorities. Central to the City’s vibrant business districts, the improved station will contribute to the ongoing economic growth and development within the municipality.
“The new design will modernize the site, address ADA accessibility as well as issues with the elevators and stairways leading up to the tracks,” said City Council President Perkins-Auguste. “In addition to being a Transit Village designee, a revitalized Train Station will enhance connections; providing the services residents, commuters and visitors expect as well as deserve.”
The City of Elizabeth is the fourth largest municipality in New Jersey and also the Union County seat. In addition to the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coastline provided via the Midtown and North Elizabeth stations, the City is geographically diverse.
It contains a portion of Newark Liberty International Airport, Port Authority operated Elizabeth mechanized Seaport, as well as provides direct access to major roadways such as the New Jersey Turnpike and Routes 1&9.
Photos: City of Elizabeth