NJ Transit leadership and government officials gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of the Elizabeth Train Station. This critically important transportation facility serves over 7,500 weekday passengers and has undergone a transformative $74M renovation and expansion to enhance the traveler experience.

The original station was built in 1893 and last reconstructed in the 1980s. However, its condition no longer met expected safety, convenience, and capacity needs. In collaboration with NJ Transit and Amtrak, the revitalized station includes a range of enhancements designed to make travel smoother and more accessible.

Key improvements include:
 

• Extended platforms: The platforms were reconstructed and lengthened to accommodate longer trains and improve boarding efficiency.
• ADA compliance: The improved station fully complies with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), doubling the number of elevators to four and replacing all stairways. The four elevators combined with ramps at the Chestnut Street end of the platform improve the station's ADA accessibility by providing three access points per platform. The renovated tunnel and canopy outside the outbound building completely cover the ADA path between the platforms at the station building end.
• Modern facilities: The renovated station includes new inbound and outbound station buildings, a ticket office, restrooms, and four new waiting areas, providing additional space and comfort for passengers.
• Improved safety and accessibility: High-level platforms, a refurbished passenger tunnel, and enhanced security and communications systems ensure a safe and seamless travel experience. The station features increased safety and security measures, including extensive use of glass on the elevator hoistways, cabs, and passenger waiting rooms, open stairways, and weather protection provided by the platform canopy and windscreens.
• Mural artwork: The project included beautified murals and cultural artwork, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The design and construction were completed under a Design-Build contract with Anselmi & DeCicco serving as the prime contractor. Urban served as the engineer of record and provided overall design management and civil, structural, MEP, and fire protection design services. Urban ensured that the design allowed continuous station operations and maintained ADA access throughout construction.

Notable figures, including NJ Transit President and CEO Kevin Corbett, Acting Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation and NJ Transit Board Chair Fran O'Connor, U.S. Representative Rob Menendez, FTA Region II Administrator Michael Culotta, NJ State Senator Joe Cryan, and Elizabeth Mayor Christian Bollwage attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Michael McAtee, Michael Wagner, and Thomas Srodin represented Urban to celebrate the successful completion of a project. Also in attendance were Brian Fey, the Architect of Record from Sowinski Sullivan Architects and Engineers, Henry Meyers, Jeff Meyers, and Nick DeRobertis from Anselmi & DeCicco.

Elizabeth Station's grand reopening marks an important update for local transportation. With modern features and better accessibility, the station sets a positive example for future transit projects. This renovation benefits the community by making travel accessible and more comfortable for everyone. The upgraded station will improve the local area by boosting local businesses and community pride.