$592,000 grant will explore equitable TOD on 9-mile route through Bergen County
December 12, 2022
newark, new jersey – NJ TRANSIT was awarded a $592,000 grant from the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) for equitable transportation-oriented development (TOD) along the proposed 9-mile extension of the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) into Bergen County. ) are being studied. The comprehensive plan builds on efforts to establish regions and employment centers along the corridor, provide a coordinated framework for action and create a blueprint for success for all stakeholders. HBLR’s expansion into Bergen County, known as the Northern Branch, furthers the goals of NJ TRANSIT’s 10-Year Strategic Plan to strengthen a stronger and just economy and promote a more sustainable future.
Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, New Jersey Commissioner of Transportation and Chairman of NJ TRANSIT, said: “We would like to thank the FTA and the Congressional delegation for securing this funding to explore how these developments can work together with the proposed HBLR expansion and provide a sustainable future for the region. appreciate.”
“The extension of the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will be a vital asset in reducing congestion and traffic and improving the quality of life for residents living in the region,” said Senator Gordon Johnson. As we continue to develop affordable transportation, it is also important to consider how we can make existing infrastructure more equitable and accessible to all. I look forward to seeing how it can help us improve.”
“This federal grant to research equitable transit-oriented development along the proposed 9-mile extension of the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) extension into Bergen County will support local residents, businesses and stakeholders. It allows the involvement of stakeholders to ensure well-planned plans, projects that meet community needs,” said Rep. Clinton Calabrese. “With this expansion, commuters in southeastern Bergen County were in dire need of additional mass transit options to help reduce traffic, increase home values, and strengthen and revitalize the downtown business district. Hudson County has enjoyed these benefits from HBLR for over 20 years and we look forward to the extension of the line that will bring these same benefits to southeastern Bergen County.”
“Bergen County couldn’t be more excited to see the construction of the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail,” said Shama Haider, a member of the state’s transportation committee. “Reliable and efficient trains improve the lives of thousands of daily commuters in our district and, in doing so, drive economic development at every stop. We look forward to reviewing and ensuring that HBLR is not only completed, but that there is fair and thoughtful development along the way.”
“There is no transportation project more significant in New Jersey than the construction of the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail North Branch,” said Rep. Ellen J. Park. “We are pleased to ensure that all aspects of light rail impact have been studied to ensure maximum benefit to both passengers and surrounding communities.”
“The introduction of light rail into the Eastern Corridor in Bergen County, one of the most densely populated areas in the country, will be a guaranteed model for successful transit-oriented development,” said Bergen County. executive Jim Tedesco said. “This critical mass transit project will significantly improve the quality of life for local residents and businesses by alleviating congestion, meeting mass transit demand, and improving the environment. We thank Commissioner Gutierrez Scacetti and the delegation of the New Jersey Legislature for their vociferous advocates and continued efforts to make light rail a reality in Bergen County.”
“This grant serves as an important step toward expanding public transit access in eastern Bergen County,” said Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Zar. “Rekindling the completion of this important transportation project will facilitate the use of mass transit in our region, benefit the environment and make life easier for commuters.”
“This generous FTA grant will support a vital TOD study and enable NJ TRANSIT to maximize mobility, passenger numbers and economic growth along all nine miles of the proposed Northern Branch project. It is conservatively estimated to serve more than 5,600 additional HBLR customers on weekdays.” NJ TRANSIT President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett. “We thank the FTA and the New Jersey Legislature delegation for their continued support of our commitment to sustainability through the TOD project supported by our transportation system.”
The TOD study frames the analysis and opportunities in a holistic manner that provides a holistic solution across a corridor that runs through North Bergen, Fairview, Ridgefield, Englewood, Leonia and parts of Palisades Park, with unique characteristics. Identify more customized solutions that work together. Constraints and needs of specific communities. The plan will involve communities, governments, local and state agencies in many aspects of transportation-oriented development in creating a collective vision for the corridor. The research also includes strong community engagement through outreach to the general public and other stakeholders.
The Northern Branch expansion is a proposed nine-mile (9-mile) route from the current terminus of Tunnel Avenue through eastern Bergen County to Inglewood Hospital and Medical Center, with seven stops. The project, currently in the design stage, will reduce road congestion and improve mobility throughout the region.
About NJ Transit
NJ TRANSIT is the nation’s largest statewide public transit system, offering more than 925,000 weekday trips through 253 bus lines, 3 light rail lines, 12 commuter rail lines, and Access Link paratransit service. With 166 train stations, 62 light rail stations, and over 19,000 bus stops connecting major points in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia, it’s the third largest transportation system in the country.
