NJ TRANSIT has commenced construction on the County Yard and Delco Lead Storage and Inspection Facility Project in New Brunswick, NJ. This initiative is part of NJ TRANSIT’s Resilience Program, aiming to establish a secure storage location for rail cars and locomotives, protecting them from potential flooding.
Senator Cory Booker emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “The new County Yard/Delco Lead Storage and Facility Project is a critical investment that will improve the efficiency and efficacy of NJ TRANSIT’s operations along the Northeast Corridor.” He also noted his role in securing $180 million from the Federal Railroad Administration for this purpose.
Congressman Frank Pallone highlighted the project's significance: "Today’s groundbreaking represents a critical step forward in ensuring New Jersey’s transit infrastructure is prepared to withstand the challenges of extreme weather." He commended NJ TRANSIT's commitment to enhancing transportation resilience.
Michael Culotta, Regional Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration, stated, “Today's groundbreaking marks a critical step in enhancing the resilience and reliability of NJ TRANSIT.” The Federal Transit Administration is providing $184.5 million towards this project.
Fran O’Connor, DOT Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chair, remarked on NJ TRANSIT's proactive measures: “Through the Delco Lead Project, we are safeguarding our rail cars against severe weather events.”
NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin S. Corbett commented on the project's milestone: “This groundbreaking marks another significant milestone in NJ TRANSIT’s mission to create a more resilient and reliable transit system.”
NJ Senator Patrick Diegnan emphasized asset protection: “As we continue to invest in modernizing our railroad, it is critical to protect these assets from extreme weather.”
Assemblyman Kevin Egan pointed out its economic benefits: “This project will help ensure our transit system continues to safely drive the economy.”
Middlesex County Commissioner Charles Kenny acknowledged ongoing partnerships with NJ TRANSIT: "Everything we’re doing in collaboration with NJ TRANSIT is making a major impact on our communities."
H. James Polos from MCIA spoke about design completion progress: “Our unique partnership with NJ TRANSIT has streamlined the project design phase.”
New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill praised New Brunswick's role: "We’re proud that New Brunswick plays a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability of transportation across New Jersey."
In September 2024, George Harms Construction Company was awarded a contract valued at over $497 million for reconstructing four miles of track and building an additional mile-long track. The project includes constructing a 1,250-foot Service and Inspection Facility designed for rapid inspection post-weather events.
The County Yard area was identified as an ideal storage site post-Superstorm Sandy due to its elevated location above floodplains. The facility aims to provide resilient storage when other locations need evacuation during extreme weather conditions.
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