NJ Transit Plans $18.5M Upgrade for Rail Car Windows Amid Congestion Controversy

NEWARK, N.J. — NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri announced a significant $18.5 million plan Wednesday aimed at replacing 13,000 windows in the agency’s multilevel rail cars over the next three years. This initiative is part of efforts to modernize the aging fleet and enhance passenger safety and comfort, following the tenure of former CEO Kevin Corbett.

“This much-needed upgrade will ensure a safer and more pleasant travel experience for our riders,” Kolluri stated during the press conference. The rail cars involved in this upgrade are essential to NJ Transit’s commuter services across northern New Jersey.

Amid these improvements, New Jersey drivers entering Manhattan‘s congestion pricing zone are facing unexpected toll charges. Despite having E-ZPass, many drivers are reporting bills reflecting the full $13.50 congestion pricing toll instead of the anticipated $9 rate.

Debra Kessler from West Orange expressed her frustration over receiving a bill for $13.50 for each of her 20 trips in January and early February, which she believed should only cost $9. “I can’t believe I have to pay this much, especially when I thought my E-ZPass covered it,” she said.

The congestion pricing program, enacted by New York in 2019, is designed to alleviate traffic congestion and improve air quality, generating an estimated $1 billion annually for public transit infrastructure. However, the Federal Highway Administration recently rescinded the approvals needed for the program, pushing the implementation deadline to March 21.

In a letter sent to New York transportation officials on February 20, the federal agency indicated that all toll collection related to this program must cease by that date. “Our position is clear: this is not a lawful order,” said John J. McCarthy, MTA Chief of Policy and External Relations, emphasizing that they have already filed a lawsuit to contest the federal decision.

Experts believe that New Jersey could expedite the end of congestion pricing by legally challenging New York’s authority to continue toll collections. Rutgers University Law School professor Kathryn Kovacs stated, “New Jersey could sue to force New York to comply with this letter from the Federal Highway Administration.”

The controversy continues as the Riders Alliance, a New York-based advocacy group, also filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Transportation regarding the congestion pricing initiative. “A vengeful federal government has left us with no choice but to contest this in court,” commented Betsy Plum, the organization’s Executive Director.

Complications arise further as MTA’s initial lawsuit challenging the congestion pricing approvals has been put on hold pending the outcome of the case against the federal government.

Additionally, Governor Phil Murphy’s office declined to comment on whether New Jersey plans to pursue legal action, while analysts caution that the evolving legal landscape could dramatically affect toll collections in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, with the May 7 deadline looming for travelers to obtain a Real ID, the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) is ramping up efforts to assist residents. MVC Licensing Centers will host “Real ID Thursdays,” adding 4,500 new appointments to help drivers comply with the federal identification requirements.

According to Latrecia Littles-Floyd, acting MVC Chief Administrator, “Over the last few months, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in demand for Real ID, and we’re working to meet that demand.”

Starting April 5, the MVC will also offer Mobile Unit events on Saturdays to further facilitate the distribution of Real ID-compliant documents. Appointments for both Real ID Thursdays and Mobile Unit events can be made through the MVC website.

TSA officials have reiterated that the May 7 deadline for Real ID compliance is unlikely to be extended, warning travelers without a Real ID that they will face increased delays at airport security checkpoints.

Law enforcement and transit officials continue to navigate these complex developments as the consequences of congestion pricing and identification requirements reshape New Jersey’s commuting landscape.