The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has announced that the first of 72 new rail cars will enter service next week as part of a 1 billion USD Port Authority Trans-Hudson (PATH) Improvement Plan.
This plan aims to enhance the passenger experience in northeastern New Jersey by expanding capacity, reducing delays and incorporating new technologies.
“PATH remains committed to improving riders’ experience, from the countdown clocks to station cell service and comfort on the train. We’re delighted to celebrate the introduction of these new rail cars marking an exciting step toward a state-of-the-art rail experience for our customers.”
The new high-performance rail cars will be gradually integrated into the network throughout 2023 and 2024 to supplement PATH’s current fleet of 350.
In addition, the new cars will contribute to PATH’s rollout of 9-car trains on the Newark to World Trade Center line. By the beginning of 2024, nearly all services on this line will be 9-car trains at peak times to increase capacity and provide a safer commuting experience.
“Prioritising public transportation means never settling for a transit system that amounts to less than what our residents and visitors deserve. After announcing 9-car train service just last month, the Port Authority will enhance PATH’s capacity and efficiency yet again through the addition of dozens of new rail cars. Together, these significant improvements will continue to spur PATH’s determined recovery of ridership while promoting safe and accessible transportation for all New Jerseyans.”
The new rail cars were built by Kawasaki in Japan before being outfitted and tested in the manufacturer’s facility in Yonkers, New York.
They will now be put into service on the lines connecting Newark to the World Trade Center, 33 St to Journal Square, Hoboken to 33 St and Hoboken to the World Trade Center, as well as the Journal Square to 33 St via Hoboken line on weekends.
