NJ Transit breaks ground on significant renovations to Perth Amboy Station

New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) broke ground for major renovations to transform the Perth Amboy Station into a modern, customer-focused, fully accessible facility.  

NJ Transit officials were joined at the groundbreaking by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, NJ Transit President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett, Speaker Craig Coughlin, Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez and other state and local officials.  

“The renovations to this historical train station represent my administration’s ongoing commitment to investing in our public transportation infrastructure,” said Gov. Murphy. “As commuters once again return to the trains they relied upon pre-pandemic to get to work or school, they must have confidence in the safety, comfort and reliability of NJ Transit. Enhancing accessibility and transforming the experience of commuters through innovative improvements will benefit countless commuters who rely on NJ Transit both here in Perth Amboy and throughout our state.”  

Renovations will include the construction of two new high-level platforms, four new elevators and additional ramps and stairs to provide greater access to the station’s platforms. 

“Improvements to the Perth Amboy Station are another step in NJ Transit’s commitment to provide accessible mobility for the communities it serves,” said NJ Transit Chair and Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti. “I look forward to continuing these efforts at stations across New Jersey.”  

“Improving our transportation infrastructure is another example of NJ TRANSIT’s commitment to a safer, more enjoyable customer experience for all,” said NJ TRANSIT Board Vice-Chair and Board Capital Planning, Policy & Privatization Committee Chair Cedrick T. Fulton. “This station is a milestone for accessibility and inclusion.” 

“The groundbreaking we celebrate today will significantly improve the customer experience for the hundreds of customers who depend on this station every day,” added Corbett. “Most importantly, aligned with one of the five over-arching goals in our 10-Year Strategic Plan (NJT2030) to power a stronger and fairer New Jersey for all communities, Perth Amboy Station will be fully accessible for customers with mobility impairments when construction is complete.” 

Plans to improve the historical station Perth Amboy Train Station – which served an average of 874 weekday customer trips prior to the pandemic – were included in NJ Transit’s five-year capital plan launched in June 2020. The approximate $45.5 million awarded to a construction contractor to perform these renovations was funded with a combination of federal and state monies. Upon completion of the project, the station will meet accessibility requirements of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

These renovations are among many other upgrades the administration has planned for NJ Transit’s older rail infrastructure. Other projects underway include improvements along the North Jersey Coast Line and Northeast Corridor totaling more than $2 billion dollars – including the revitalization of the Elizabeth Train Station and the construction of the new Portal North and Raritan River bridges. 

“Perth Amboy is a vital transportation hub connecting New York to our New Jersey shore beaches,” said Perth Amboy Mayor Helmin J. Caba. "This much-needed project aligns itself with our great state's commitment to our residents in improving accessibility and enhancing the experience of commuters. I want to thank Governor Phil Murphy, our legislators, NJ TRANSIT, and previous administrations for their advocacy and commitment to making today possible."  

The Perth Amboy renovations are expected to be completed by the first half of 2024. Additional improvements to the station will include renovated restrooms, the installation of upgraded security cameras, and repairs to the pedestrian bridge as well as the eastbound and westbound buildings. 

The station’s distinctive design elements, built in the Renaissance Revival architectural style when it was constructed in 1927, will be preserved in the new station.