The Raritan Valley Rail Coalition (RVRC) launched a video and petition regarding the ‘One Seat’ direct ride into NYC in an effort to get local legislators to encourage NJ TRANSIT to make it a priority to lay out a plan of action.
In March of 2014 NJ TRANSIT established direct service (no change in Newark) for midday trains on weekdays and in January of 2015 direct trains after 8 pm on weekdays. However, there has been no more plans for expanding the direct service.
“We’re only halfway toward our goal of full mid-town direct service,” said Peter Palmer, RVRC Chairman and Somerset County Freeholder. “This is not just about convenience for commuters. Direct service in all time slots would have a major impact in terms of economic development, improved property values and the productivity of our commuting workforce.”
The ultimate goal of the RVRC, which has championed the one-seat direct train service to NYC since 1998, is complete direct service from the Raritan Line into NYC. Currently, riders on peak hour trains still have to transfer in Newark.
Posted by County of Union, New Jersey on Saturday, January 30, 2016
Members of the RVRC continue to meet regularly with NJ Transit officials to accomplish this goal. “We understand the complex nature of implementing these changes,” said Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr, who heads the RVRC Mayor’s Coalition. “However, our first responsibility is to the residents of every town on the RVL and making sure they are treated fairly in the transit system.”
To view the video and sign the petition or for more information and articles about the efforts to get one-seat service go to www.raritanvalleyrail.com or contact info@raritanvalleyrail.com