Gracie WarhurstThe Port Authority of New York and New Jersey have approved the design and construction of a $160 million project that will increase transit accessibility for underserved Newark and Elizabeth neighborhoods, cutting down commute times by 75%.
The Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) Station Access project includes extending the rail station’s pedestrian bridge over station platforms and tracks to a new public access facility on a nearby street, where there will be pickup and drop-off area for vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians. There will also be a cellphone lot for private vehicles. Construction is expected to finish by 2026.
With the new 16,350-foot facility, residents of South Newark and North Elizabeth can access both EWR and Newark Penn Station in 10 minutes compared with the current 40-minute commute.
“This latest project will be a crucial bridge – literally and figuratively – for local residents, many of whom help power one of the world’s busiest airports,” Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement. “An extended pedestrian bridge will provide access to multiple modes of transportation, cutting down travel time significantly, and providing greater and easier access not only to multiple modes of transportation, but to a world of opportunities.”
In addition to the new facility, the project will include elevators and escalators between the bridge and street, which are ADA accessible. There will be displays for bus and train departure times as well as ticket vending machines.
Funding for design and construction comes after the Port Authority approved $12 million for planning in response to community requests for improvements to the EWR’s transit. The port will continue to develop the area according to the EWR Vision Plan through 2065.
