The historic Brick Church station in East Orange is in the midst of a rehabilitation project that aims to transform it into a model of modern station with new infrastructure that preserves historic features. The New Jersey Transit board of directors said in a recent announcement that it has implemented a set of improvements to the station building that comes in advance of a recently announced, separate rehabilitation project to make the station fully accessible with high-level platforms and elevators.
“This project underscores our commitment to preserving the historical essence of our Brick Church station, while equipping it with modern amenities to better serve our community,” NJ Transit CEO & President Kevin Corbett, said. “These improvements — combined with significant accessibility enhancements coming soon through the FTA’s generous All Stations Accessibility Program grant — will improve the daily commutes of countless residents, enhancing their quality of life and boosting the local economy in East Orange and beyond.”
John O’Hara Co. Inc. of East Orange was awarded a $3 million contract to restore the station building’s interior walls, doors and ceilings, installation of a historic plaque, electrical work, restroom alterations for ADA compliance, heating equipment, painting, telecommunications and security upgrades.
The contract comes in addition to the $83.1 million Federal Transit Administration grant awarded last month to replace the current low-level platforms with accessible high-level platforms and add elevators. Other improvements include restoring the historic benches and terrazzo floor as well as the historic windows and providing an art installation.
