NEW JERSEY – NJ Transit’s Board of Directors has approved more than $917 million to overhaul the agency’s fleet of 429 multilevel railcars, marking a major step in its ongoing effort to modernize its rail system, officials announced Wednesday.
The multilevel I and II cars — many of which are nearing 20 years in service — are scheduled for mid-life rehabilitation. The overhaul will also ensure the older vehicles are compatible with the new third-generation multilevel railcars currently being procured.
“As I’ve committed to the Governor, modernizing our fleet isn’t just about adding new vehicles—it’s also about keeping our current ones in a state of good repair for the people who ride them every day,” said NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri. “This overhaul is part of our broader effort to fully modernize NJ TRANSIT’s rail and bus fleets by 2031, ensuring safe, reliable, and modern service for our customers systemwide.”
The board authorized up to $917,058,512.41, plus 10 percent for contingencies, to rehabilitate 329 Multilevel I cars delivered between 2006 and 2009 and 100 Multilevel II cars delivered between 2012 and 2013.
NJ Transit will use an Expression of Interest process to identify qualified contractors experienced in large-scale mid-life commuter railcar programs. Contractors will be invited to submit details on their qualifications and relevant experience before a shortlist is created for the final procurement stage.
The work will include ensuring the fleet remains in a state of good repair, upgrading systems for improved reliability, and enhancing compatibility with incoming Multilevel III cars. Passenger amenities will also be upgraded, including USB charging ports and other features consistent with the new generation of railcars. Sustainability improvements using energy-efficient materials and systems will be included where feasible.
The board has already approved the purchase of 374 Multilevel III cars, which will replace NJ Transit’s aging single-level fleet, including the Arrow III cars — the oldest and least reliable in the system. The new multilevel vehicles will offer increased seating, improved accessibility, higher top speeds of up to 110 mph, and modern onboard amenities such as USB charging ports.
The overhaul initiative is part of NJ Transit’s long-term strategy to modernize its fleet and improve reliability for riders across the state.
