NJ Transit Broad Street Extension of Newark Light Rail Celebrates 10 Years

It’s been 10 years since the NJ Transit introduced the Broad Street Extension of the Newark Light Rail system, connecting two of the agency’s busiest train stations to the downtown district in the state’s largest city.

The one-mile-long Broad Street Extension, which links Newark Penn Station with Newark Broad Street, began operating on July 17, 2006. On an average weekday, the Newark Light Rail system accommodates more than 19,000 passenger trips, representing more than 12.2 million annual passenger miles.

“The opening of the Broad Street Extension was a milestone moment for public transportation options for NJ Transit, and this service is thriving today,’’ said interim Executive Director Dennis Martin. “The Extension provides a faster, more convenient commuting option for the thousands who are going to downtown Newark or points beyond. We are proud to offer this convenient option that takes our customers to entertainment venues, work locations and more.’’

The Broad Street Extension allows for increased travel flexibility for customers using NJ Transit’s Morris & Essex and Montclair Boonton rail lines. Those customers can simply depart at Newark Broad Street and easily transfer for service to Newark Penn Station via the Broad Street Extension. Customers may use the Extension to access an increasingly vibrant business and entertainment district and attend events at NJPAC using the NJPAC/Center Street Station.

Construction on the Broad Street Extension cost $207.7 million and was completed on time. The Federal Transit Administration provided $166 million for the project under a full-funding grant agreement.