NJ Transit is preparing to advance the Northern Rail Maintenance-of-Way (MOW) facility project, a major infrastructure initiative located in Clifton, with the release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Special Prequalification in June 2025, pending approval from the New Jersey Office of the State Comptroller.
This RFQ marks the first step in a two-phase procurement process to engage a qualified design-build team for the project’s final design, construction and commissioning.
The project will construct a new maintenance-of-way facility and yard at 99 Kuller Road in Clifton, replacing the aging and flood-prone Wood-Ridge facility. The new location will enhance NJ Transit’s ability to maintain the right-of-way and railroad infrastructure by providing modernized space for maintenance, servicing and repair of vehicles.
The design will enhance the current functions performed at the existing facility, accommodate increased maintenance demands and incorporate updated features that meet current codes and operational needs.
“This project is a key step in delivering the infrastructure we need to support reliable and efficient transit operations across the state,” said NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri. “We look forward to partnering with experienced teams who share our commitment to innovation and excellence.”
“NJ Transit moving forward with this federally funded rail maintenance is great news,” said Congresswoman Nellie Pou, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “This project will simultaneously safeguard this important facility from repeated flooding while maintaining critical infrastructure that improves reliability for New Jersey commuters. Here we have federal and state governments working together to make a positive impact in the daily lives of our neighbors.”
“This facility will enhance NJ Transit’s ability to maintain the tracks and infrastructure that thousands of North Jersey residents depend on for reliable train service,” said state Senator Paul Sarlo. “Using federal money to invest in our transportation network will continue to keep cars off the roads, clean the air and keep our region and economy moving.”
“Maintaining a safe and reliable rail system is essential to keeping New Jersey moving,” said Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee Chair Clinton Calabrese. “Each day, over 100,000 people across New Jersey depend on NJ Transit rail service. This new facility will enhance the agency’s ability to perform critical maintenance, reduce service disruptions and ensure efficient, dependable service for riders across the state.”
“There are hundreds of thousands of commuters that rely on our state’s public transportation system, which has been a driving force in our economy. It is vital that we update and maintain our public infrastructure,” said Assemblyman Gary Schaer. ” This new facility will give NJ Transit the necessary tools it needs to keep the trains moving, protect our environment and foster reliable public transportation in our North Jersey communities.”
The project includes:
- Demolition and environmental abatement of an existing building and substructures at 99 Kuller Road
- Construction of three new buildings across two NJ Transit-owned sites
- Site grading, new access roads and dedicated parking areas
- Coordination of site utilities and integration of maintenance equipment
The Special Prequalification process will evaluate design-build teams based on their technical qualifications, relevant experience and project approach. Following the evaluation, NJ Transit anticipates shortlisting the most qualified firms to move forward to the next phase. At that point, a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) will be issued.
Additional procurement details, including submission deadlines and evaluation criteria, will be outlined in the RFQ and made available at www.bidexpress.com upon release.
