GCL selects SJTP for preliminary engineering and design of light-rail project

The Glassboro-Camden Line (GCL) Project Team has selected the infrastructure consulting firm, South Jersey Transit Partners (SJTP), to provide preliminary engineering and design (PED), project management, and professional services for the pre-construction phase of the light- rail line. SJTP is a joint venture between AECOM and STV Incorporated.

This action moves the GCL closer to construction with the start of the next phase of this important project that will expand connections between communities in south Jersey by restoring passenger rail service.

"The GCL is an important initiative to improve mobility by offering quick, reliable, and frequent rail service to the region," said Bane Gaiser, chief executive of AECOM's U.S. East and Latin America region. "Our SJTP joint venture is incredibly proud to continue our crucial work, leveraging our deep understanding of the GCL's objectives, the project’s scope, stakeholder engagement, and public needs to successfully deliver a transportation option that will have a positive impact on the day-to-day lives of south Jerseyans."

The PED phase is a critical part of the project, as it will define the overall project configuration and develop a strategic construction plan. This phase, which is expected to take three years, provides design specifications and contract documents, secures right-of-way acquisitions and easements, and performs geotechnical and utility surveys.

In addition, SJTP will provide project management office functions, including continued community relations and public involvement for the GCL throughout the design and construction phases.

The Glassboro-Camden Line is an 18-mile passenger light- rail line that will traverse Gloucester and Camden counties. It will restore passenger rail service along an existing rail line, with the goal of increasing mobility and improving links between established communities, jobs, and activity centers in the region.

The GCL project is managed by the Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) with New Jersey Transit and the South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA) serving as project partners.

"We expect public transportation to be even more important in the future," said John T. Hanson, DRPA CEO. "The time is now to build permanent infrastructure that will provide the residents and businesses in South Jersey with safe and equitable access to key destinations and to create opportunities for business expansion and employee recruitment."