NJ Transit President Kris Kolluri reaffirmed the state’s commitment to the controversial Glassboro-Camden Line (GCL) during a speech to South Jersey business leaders and officials. The 18-mile light rail project, designed to improve regional connectivity, is moving forward despite opposition from several local communities.
Kolluri, who was appointed NJ Transit CEO in December 2024, emphasized that pre-construction work would begin this year, describing the GCL as a “once-in-a-century” development opportunity for South Jersey.
A Divisive Project with Strong State Support
The proposed GCL would run along existing railroad tracks, connecting Glassboro to Camden. The state aims to modernize public transportation and stimulate economic growth by providing South Jersey residents with an alternative to driving. However, the project has faced resistance from communities concerned about noise, traffic congestion, and potential declines in property values.
Towns including Pitman, Mantua Township, Woodbury Heights, Wenonah, and Brooklawn have all voted against the project in recent years. In contrast, Glassboro residents voted in favor of the rail line, while Camden has not held a referendum.
“For those of you who may oppose this, it isn’t that I don’t listen to your concerns or I don’t care about your concerns,” Kolluri said. “But in the end, great projects happen because they fit the vision of what the state needs.”
The New Jersey Department of Transportation and NJ Transit have argued that improved transit infrastructure will benefit the economy and enhance access to jobs, schools, and businesses.
Economic and Infrastructure Impact
State officials, including Gov. Phil Murphy, have prioritized the GCL as a key infrastructure project. Murphy, who is in the final year of his second term, has allocated resources to ensure its progress. Kolluri compared the GCL’s economic potential to the Hudson Tunnel Project, a $16.1 billion rail initiative in North Jersey.
“Transportation is the foundation of our economy,” Kolluri said. “I don’t want to build a pretty train line just because it looks nice. This project is critical for South Jersey’s economy and the entire state.”
The light rail line will integrate with the planned redevelopment of the Walter Rand Transportation Center in Camden. The state has allocated $250 million to upgrade the transit hub, which serves as a key connection point for buses and trains. Kolluri stressed that construction on this project would also begin this year.
Challenges and Concerns
Despite NJ Transit’s assurances, many local residents remain unconvinced. Opponents argue that the light rail will increase noise pollution and disrupt neighborhoods. Additionally, concerns about safety and potential impacts on property values continue to fuel resistance.
“We have small-town charm here, and we don’t want it ruined by a rail line bringing more traffic and congestion,” said a Pitman resident who voted against the project.
NJ Transit has maintained that the GCL will use modern rail technology to minimize noise and environmental impact. Additionally, state planners believe the line will reduce reliance on cars, cutting down on traffic congestion and carbon emissions.
As part of the planning process, NJ Transit is conducting studies to improve public transit routes in Burlington, Camden, and Gloucester counties. Kolluri emphasized that the agency is considering various factors, including bus routes, train schedules, and accessibility.
“You’ve got to have a rationale for why you’re running buses or trains a certain way,” he said. “These are not easy or inexpensive decisions, but they must be made.”
The Path Ahead
While construction is not expected to begin immediately, the pre-construction phase—including environmental reviews and final design approvals—is set to move forward. State officials remain committed to seeing the GCL through, despite continued opposition from certain communities.
Camden County Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. voiced strong support for the project, highlighting its long-term benefits.
“We are finally going to have a state-of-the-art transportation system in South Jersey, something we have needed for a very long time,” Cappelli said.
With funding secured and state leadership pushing forward, the Glassboro-Camden Line is poised to become a reality—whether all residents support it or not.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
