$2B New Jersey Rail Project Advances Despite Resident Opposition

A new phase in the development of the Glassboro-Camden Light Rail project is underway as key construction initiatives commence. Public agencies have officially started bridge construction and authorized property acquisitions, signaling a significant advancement in this controversial venture.

Project Overview

The Glassboro-Camden Light Rail is designed to connect Gloucester County to Camden County’s rail network. This connection will link to NJ Transit’s RiverLine leading to Trenton and provide access to services extending to Atlantic City and Philadelphia.

Recent Developments

• On December 10, NJ Transit’s board approved the purchase of property at 525 Martin Luther King Boulevard in Camden.
• This property will be used for the light rail line and as a staging area for the redevelopment of the Walter Rand Transportation Center, part of a $250 million investment.
• The Camden site is the first of 216 properties required across 14 towns for the light rail project.

Project Funding and Support

The total cost of the light rail initiative is estimated at $2 billion. It will largely rely on state funding. NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri emphasized strong governmental backing, reiterating the project’s momentum under the administrations of Governor Phil Murphy and incoming Governor Mikie Sherrill.

Community Opposition

Despite the project’s advancement, it faces significant opposition from local residents. A grassroots group, Stop the GCL, has actively campaigned against it, successfully launching efforts for referendums in several towns.

• Opposition resolutions have passed in Mantua, Pitman, and Woodbury Heights.
• Five out of the fourteen towns slated for light rail stops have demonstrated resistance through resolutions and non-binding referendum votes.

Opponents argue that the light rail will disrupt communities with noise and traffic issues. They question whether the projected ridership will justify the substantial construction and operational costs.

Alternative Solutions

Charles Hughes, a co-founder of Stop the GCL and a retired aerospace engineer, advocates for micro-transit ride-share programs as a more efficient alternative. He suggests that such systems could “revolutionize transportation” by providing tailored travel solutions.

Projected Growth and Future Studies

According to the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, Gloucester County’s population and employment are expected to increase by 29% by 2045. This growth highlights the need for enhanced transportation options in the region.

Initial studies for the light rail project began in 2003, with more detailed evaluations and environmental assessments conducted in subsequent years. The planned corridor passes through densely populated areas such as Glassboro, Woodbury, and Pitman, which are home to colleges and medical centers vital to the local economy.

As the Glassboro-Camden Light Rail project continues to evolve, it will require careful consideration of community impacts and potential alternatives to ensure it meets the needs of the residents in Gloucester and Camden counties.