By: Najla Alexander
NJ Transit officials say the modernization of New Jersey’s iconic Transit hub continues with the project to replace major components of the air conditioning system to provide a cleaner and more comfortable customer experience.
According to NJ Transit officials, they are taking steps toward enhancing Newark Penn Station by making critical upgrades to the station’s air conditioning system.
NJ TRANSIT’s Board of Directors has approved a contract to replace two chillers and two cooling towers, which will provide reliable cooling for the foreseeable future, officials said.
Chillers at this station provide air conditioning for all interior spaces, including electrical equipment rooms necessary for station operations.
“This project is part of NJ TRANSIT’s commitment to provide a clean and comfortable world-class travel experience,” said New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti.
“By keeping the air temperature at a comfortable level, customers can look forward to a pleasant experience during the summer months.”
“The contract approved by our Board today will significantly improve the overall experience of thousands of customers who pass through Newark Penn Station every day,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin S. Corbett.
“Thanks to Governor Murphy’s significant funding commitment, we’re pleased to continue advancing the transformation of Newark Penn Station into one of the crown jewels of our system.”
Officials say the contract was awarded to John O’Hara Company Inc. of East Orange, New Jersey, to provide construction services for replacing chillers and cooling towers at Newark Penn Station in the amount of $4,620,756.32, plus five percent for contingencies, subject to the availability of funds.
Newark Penn Station was constructed in 1935. As the structure of the station has aged, so have the mechanical systems that provide a comfortable commute for customers.
Officials say that two chillers and two cooling towers are used to maintain the station's air conditioning.
The current units, each with a 150-ton refrigeration capacity, have been in service for nearly 30 years and have reached the end of their useful life.
For the past seven years, the necessary maintenance of the existing HVAC system has increased while the replacement parts needed for repair have become more challenging to acquire, officials said.
According to officials, in 2020, Governor Phil Murphy announced $190 million for renovations and upgrades at historic Newark Penn Station as part of a more extensive reimagining of the facility to provide customers with a 21st-century experience while maintaining the station’s historic grandeur.
The work began immediately with $30 million in renovations and restorations, with additional upgrades scheduled over the coming years totaling $160 million, TRANSIT officials say.
NJ TRANSIT’s Newark Penn Station Modernization Project will deliver improvements to the station and its immediate surroundings, enhancing the experience of customers passing through the station and for the residents and businesses in the community.