New Jersey Transit has approved 10% of the design concept of the North Brunswick Train Station project, a milestone moment, as it shows a baseline agreement on the project — and it allows the Middlesex County Improvement Authority to unveil a project webpage to inform community stakeholders of the progress and activities around its development.
MCIA Executive Director H. James Polos said the approval also allows the group to immediately proceed with the next phase of design — which is more technical and detailed, he said.
The long-awaited North Brunswick Train Station project began to move forward in late 2020, when the MCIA signed a memorandum of understanding with NJ Transit. The MOU permits the MCIA to serve as the project manager overseeing the design and construction of the project.
Under this agreement, the MCIA coordinates input from NJ Transit, Amtrak, the New Jersey Department of Transportation, the township of North Brunswick and its developer, and Middlesex County.
Funding for the project has been provided by the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund in the amount of $50 million. This phase of work will include the construction of the southbound platform, along with a provision to extend an existing pedestrian overpass to serve a potential future northbound/eastbound side.
In October 2021, with the funding and necessary agreements in place, design and preliminary engineering work began. The conceptual design direction was quickly submitted in January 2022 and the design team worked to finalize technical aspects through the summer, culminating with NJ Transit’s 10% design approval.
County Commissioner Director Ronald Rios is pleased with the progress.
“The MCIA has transformed into an agency focused on economic development for Middlesex County,” he said. “They are spearheading the North Brunswick Train station project, which is part of our Destination 2040 strategic vision.
“Our residents will receive the benefits of a strategic plan to make Middlesex County a thriving, attractive destination to live, work and play for generations to come. Additionally, we will see the benefit of reducing traffic along the Route 1 corridor.”
North Brunswick Mayor Francis Womack welcomed the news of an informational webpage and its ability to allow residents to remain engaged on project progress.
“Our residents have been anxiously awaiting the new train station,” he said. “As the project progresses, it’s important to be as transparent as possible and keep the public engaged and informed. The dedicated webpage will be a great tool to provide regular updates.”
