NJ Transit makes $101.4 million light rail vehicle purchase

The New Jersey Transit Board of Directors exercised an option with 21st Century Rail Corporation for $101.4 million to purchase 34 light rail vehicles (LRVs) for a one-mile extension of the Newark City Subway and the second minimum operable segment of Hudson-Bergen Light Rail. The purchase will enable NJ Transit to expand service and capacity on two New Jersey light rail systems, and provide more travel options within some of the most densely populated sections of the state. The Newark City Subway extension will link two of NJ Transit's busiest rail lines -- the Northeast Corridor and the Morris & Essex Lines. Six LRVs will be used to operate this service, slated to open in 2005. The new LRVs are 90-feet long and equipped with four double doors on each side, 68 seats, two wheelchair securements and accommodations for another 122 standees.