NJ TRANSIT has announced a series of ongoing upgrades to the River LINE as it progresses towards taking full responsibility for operations and maintenance from Alstom.
The improvements form part of a broader transition programme intended to strengthen reliability, customer communications and the overall travel experience.
NJ TRANSIT President and Chief Executive Officer Kris Kolluri presented the first River LINE vehicle to undergo a comprehensive interior refurbishment and engine overhaul. To mark this stage in the programme, the vehicle has been wrapped in special graphics recognising the 250th anniversary of the United States, which is being commemorated this year.
NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri was joined by New Jersey State Senator Troy Singleton to highlight operational improvements made to the RiverLINE
© NJ TRANSIT
The refurbishment work is aligned with similar modernisation efforts taking place across its wider bus and rail network.
NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri said:
As we finalise the process of assuming operation of the River LINE, every upgrade we’re making is focused on improving reliability, communications and the customer experience. This work builds on the systemwide modernization already underway across our bus and rail fleets, as we also maintain an equal commitment to investing in the quality of commute for our light rail customers.
The River LINE upgrades are being delivered as the agency prepares to assume direct oversight of service operations, infrastructure maintenance and station upkeep. Safety and security remain a central focus of the programme. The New Jersey Transit Police continue to maintain a visible presence on the River LINE and coordinate with local, county, state and federal law enforcement partners.
The transition process follows authorisation by the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors to enter into a contract with Kinkisharyo International LLC for the maintenance of the River LINE fleet. Under the new arrangements, NJ TRANSIT will oversee day-to-day service delivery, right-of-way maintenance and station maintenance. The transition from the current contractor, Alstom, began in early September after several years of joint assessments of system conditions and is expected to be completed during the first quarter of this year.
As part of the maintenance programme, NJ TRANSIT and Kinkisharyo are carrying out full rehabilitations of passenger interiors on selected vehicles. The work includes the installation of new LED lighting, replacement seating, new flooring and updated signage. Comprehensive inspections are also being undertaken to ensure the vehicles remain in good working condition. Fourteen light rail vehicles are scheduled to be upgraded under this programme, while NJ TRANSIT develops a separate request for proposals to replace the entire River LINE fleet in the future.
In addition to vehicle upgrades, NJ TRANSIT has introduced real-time arrival information at all River LINE stations. Customers can now view live departure times on platform displays and through the NJ TRANSIT mobile app. The system allows passengers to track vehicles in real time, providing clearer information about service conditions and potential delays.
NJ TRANSIT states that these measures are intended to support the long-term sustainability of the River LINE and improve day-to-day travel for customers across South Jersey as the agency completes its transition to direct operation.
Senator Troy Singleton (LD-7) said:
The River LINE is a vital connector for residents and businesses across South Jersey. Investments like these not only enhance the quality and reliability of service but also reaffirm NJ TRANSIT’s commitment to strengthening our region’s infrastructure and supporting economic growth. I remain hopeful that these are the types of improvements we will continue to see in the months ahead.