NJ TRANSIT advanced its fleet modernization program with board approval of a $917 million investment to overhaul its existing fleet of 429 multilevel railcars.

The Multilevel I and II cars, which are approaching 20 years of service, are due for their recommended mid-life overhaul. 

Additionally, as NJ TRANSIT is currently procuring new third-generation Multilevel vehicles, the overhaul will ensure compatibility and interoperability with these new Multilevel III vehicles.

“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/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.”

What's next?

The NJ TRANSIT board authorized funding not to exceed $917,058,512.41, plus 10% for contingencies, to overhaul its fleet of 329 first-generation Multilevel I vehicles, delivered between 2006 and 2009, and 100 Multilevel II vehicles, delivered between 2012 and 2013. 

An Expression of Interest (EOI) process will be used to identify qualified rail vehicle overhaul contractors with proven experience in large-scale commuter railcar mid-life overhaul programs. The EOI process will invite contractors to submit their qualifications, capabilities, and relevant project experience. 

Based on the evaluation of the EOIs received, NJ TRANSIT officials said the agency will develop a list of contractors to be invited to participate in the final procurement and contract award stage. The scope of work includes, but is not limited to:

• Ensuring the cars are in a state of good repair and improving the systems to ensure their reliability and compatibility with new Multilevel III vehicles.

• Enhancing passenger comfort with upgraded amenities and features to match Multilevel III vehicles, such as USB charging ports.

• Promoting sustainability with energy-efficient systems and materials where feasible.

Revamping the Fleet

The New Jersey Transit board previously authorized the purchase of 374 new multilevel railcars. These next-generation Multilevel III cars will replace the fleet of single-level vehicles, including the oldest and least reliable Arrow III cars. 

In addition to increased mechanical reliability, the new vehicles will offer enhanced seating capacity and accessibility, higher top speeds of up to 110 mph, and improved onboard amenities for customers, including USB charging ports.