Middlesex County Improvement Authority (MCIA) and NJ TRANSIT award design contract to AECOM for New Brunswick Train Station

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ - In a significant step toward revitalizing the New Brunswick Train Station, the Middlesex County Improvement Authority (MCIA), in partnership with NJ TRANSIT under the leadership of CEO Kevin Corbett and the New Jersey Department of Transportation led by Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, has awarded a $7 million design contract to infrastructure consulting firm AECOM during its November 8, 2023, meeting. This crucial investment will facilitate major renovations to this key Northeast Corridor train station, including the westbound and eastbound platforms; pedestrian transfer passages; the existing tunnel beneath the tracks; site work and landscaping; new waiting areas; entrance signage; trainway equipment; building equipment; vertical circulation elements; and other vital site-related components.

"The renovation of the New Brunswick Train Station will play a pivotal role in supporting the ongoing economic development of Middlesex County. Aligning with the concurrent construction of the Jack and Sheryl Morris Cancer Center and the Health + Life Sciences Exchange (HELIX) in the county seat of New Brunswick, this project is instrumental in positioning the County as a vibrant destination," said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. "In collaboration with key stakeholders such as the New Jersey Department of Transportation, NJ TRANSIT, the City of New Brunswick, and the MCIA, we are committed to working closely with AECOM to ensure the bustling train station meets the diverse needs of the growing community."

"This modernization will enhance accessibility to residents, researchers, patients, employees, students and visitors coming throughout the region," said MCIA Chairman James P. Nolan. "New Brunswick is the heart of New Jersey, and we are committed to helping them reach their full potential as an economic powerhouse and destination."

"The customer experience will benefit from extending and replacing well-worn passenger platforms, modern amenities, reliable elevators and escalators. Brighter and more energy-efficient lighting and upgraded heating and air conditioning systems will all be a part of the extensive renovations," said MCIA Executive Director H. James Polos. "The MCIA will work diligently with all its partners including the City of New Brunswick, NJ TRANSIT, AMTRAK, NJDOT, Middlesex County and the State of New Jersey, to deliver a project that will perfectly complement and support the world-class facilities currently being built in the Hub City."

"We are pleased to continue advancing this important infrastructure work at our New Brunswick Station with our partners at the MCIA," said NJ TRANSIT President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett. "These station improvements not only significantly improve the customer experience at the station, but they support our continued efforts to make public transit as accessible as possible for all those who depend on it for their everyday mobility."

"The modernization of the New Brunswick Train Station will provide much-needed updates to the 120-year-old-station to enhance the commuter experience," said Middlesex County Commissioner Charles Kenny, chair of the County's Transportation Committee. "This will encourage the use of mass transit to travel to and from New Brunswick whether for the arts, work, medical care, or recreation."

"This transformative project marks another significant milestone in our commitment to enhancing the infrastructure that connects our community," said Mayor of New Brunswick Jim Cahill. "These improvements will not only elevate the travel experience for our residents and commuters, but also contribute to the continued growth and vitality of New Brunswick. Together, we build a future where our city continues to thrive, and our transportation hubs reflect the dynamic spirit of progress."

The MCIA is spearheading the renovations on behalf of the County and NJ TRANSIT, with the $7 million contract forming part of the $45 million investment funded by the State of New Jersey as part of the FY2023 budget, dedicated to rail station improvement through the Debt Defeasance and Prevention Fund. Additionally, the MCIA is making major progress in the North Brunswick Train Station project, with NJ TRANSIT granting formal approval for 10% of the concept design earlier this year.