NJ TRANSIT has taken a significant step forward in the construction of the new Raritan River Bridge by awarding a second construction contract. This project, part of the North Jersey Coast Line (NJCL), involves replacing an aging swing bridge with a modern lift bridge to improve reliability and efficiency.
The NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors awarded the contract to Skanska Koch Inc., based in Carteret, New Jersey. The contract is valued at up to $444,380,524, with an additional five percent allocated for contingencies. This funding will cover the construction of the lift bridge and associated infrastructure such as communication systems and overhead catenary.
Kevin S. Corbett, NJ TRANSIT President & CEO, emphasized the importance of this project: “Today’s Board authorization advances one of NJ TRANSIT’s most critical resiliency projects, ensuring a more reliable and robust rail link for thousands of daily customers on the North Jersey Coast Line.” He noted that replacing the century-old structure would enhance operational efficiency and preparedness for extreme weather events.
The existing Raritan River Bridge serves as a crucial rail link between Perth Amboy and South Amboy stations. It connects 17 out of 20 NJCL stations to Newark and Manhattan. Approximately 11,400 daily passengers rely on this line for about 22,800 weekday trips. The current bridge also supports Conrail freight services.
Constructed in 1908, the current swing-span bridge was not designed to withstand ocean surges' lateral forces. Superstorm Sandy highlighted its vulnerabilities when it caused significant damage by displacing the bridge deck and impacting structural components with debris. As a result, train services were suspended for three weeks following necessary repairs.
While repairs have allowed continued use of the old bridge during construction, approaches to the new structure are underway under a separate contract initiated in June 2020. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has contributed over $446 million towards funding this overall replacement project.
NJ TRANSIT remains committed to providing efficient public transportation across New Jersey and neighboring states through its extensive network of bus routes, light rail lines, commuter rail lines, and paratransit services.
