The Frank R. Lautenberg transit station at Secaucus Junction got a much needed parking upgrade this week. Governor Corzine, Senator Lautenberg, Congressman Rothman and the property developer cut the ribbon on 1,100 new parking spaces at the station on Monday.
“Today we reach yet another milestone in our ongoing efforts to expand mobility options, move toward greener transportation practices, and improve mass transit services for New Jersey residents,” Governor Corzine said. “The opening of this new parking lot will provide easier access for thousands of passengers served by Frank R. Lautenberg Station each weekday. This, along with the upcoming Mass Transit Tunnel, will solidify the station as the core of New Jersey’s rail system of the future.”
Since its opening six years ago, ridership at the station has tripled from about 5,400 passengers a day to nearly 17,000. This isn't surprising considering it acts as a connecting hub for 10 of New Jersey's 11 rail lines. In July, the Meadowlands Rail Link will open, creating a direct line between the Lautenberg Station and the Meadowlands Sports Complex, adding an additional 10,000-12,000 passenger.
Given the addition of new parking spaces, and a new rail line as well as its proximity to major highways and Newark Airport, NJ Transit believes that the Lautenberg Station will be a magnet for commercial and residential development as the economy recovers.
“This is one more building block in an expansive transportation infrastructure that will take cars off the road, increase travel options, and create economic opportunities,” added Governor Corzine. “I look forward to the continued development in and around Lautenberg Station, and the opportunities it will bring to the residents of New Jersey.”
Both this station and the Mass Transit Tunnel will serve as the core of New Jersey's rail system for decades to come. Currently rail lines going in and out of Manhattan during peak hours are at maximum capacity. The Mass Transit Tunnel project will double existing rail capacity and allow for transfer free rail service to New York on several new lines. The construction of the Mass Transit Tunnel is expected to create 6,000 jobs every year through 2017. Once it is expected to create 44,000 permanent jobs as a result of increased mobility in the region. A groundbreaking is scheduled for this June.
