NJ Transit to rebuild rail station in Elizabeth

New Jersey Transit yesterday unveiled preliminary design plans for a $55 million restoration of Elizabeth Station.

Funded with federal and state dollars, the project will include construction of a new station building, new elevators and stairs, vendor space and reconstruction of passenger platforms, according to an NJ Transit press release.

"The reconstruction of Elizabeth Station will provide a state-of-the-art facility for the residents and riders that also reflects the character of the historic business district," said NJ Transit Executive Director Veronique Hakim. "We recognize the importance of this facility to passengers on the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast lines and are committed to providing a safe and modern facility."

The design plans include a two-story station building with a street-level ticket office, waiting room and vendor space. New, extended high-level train platforms will accommodate longer, 12-car trains, and the platforms will feature covered, heated and air conditioned waiting areas. The station also will feature upgraded passenger information and security systems.

NJ Transit coordinated the station's design with Amtrak to accommodate Amtrak's future plans to add a fifth track to the Northeast Corridor, which will affect platform placement and final design approval. After Amtrak's final approval of the design, NJ Transit will procure a design-build contractor for the project, with an expected completion date in 2018.