NJ TRANSIT TO RESTORE EXTERIOR OF HISTORIC WATSESSING STATION

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October 15, 2012
NJT-12-083

NEWARK, NJ — The NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors today authorized nearly $1.7 million worth of improvements to the historic Watsessing Station in Bloomfield, including the restoration of the station building exterior, complementing previous work that was done to restore the inbound and outbound canopies.

“The Watsessing Station project demonstrates the State’s commitment to maintaining our public transportation infrastructure and facilities in a state of good repair, which preserves our rail stations as valuable assets for the communities we serve,” said Transportation Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chairman James Simpson.  “Rail stations often serve as the anchor for area communities, spurring economic development and providing a vital gateway for residents, visitors and commuters alike.”

“Projects like this enable NJ TRANSIT to maintain safe and comfortable transit facilities for our customers,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director James Weinstein.  “The improvements will both enhance the commuting experience for those who use the station today, while preserving the historic station for future generations.”

The Board awarded a $1.7 million contract to John O’Hara Company, Inc., of East Orange, NJ, for exterior restoration of the station building to preserve the historic character of the station; site improvements surrounding the station building at the street and platform levels; and installation of CCTV cameras, passenger communication systems and updated signage to enhance the overall customer experience.

In 2007, NJ TRANSIT completed the first phase of the Watsessing Station improvement project, which included restoration of the platforms, canopies and retaining wall.  

Work on the federally-funded exterior improvements is expected to begin by the end of this year, with completion in the fall of 2013.

Located on the Montclair-Boonton Line, Watsessing Station serves more than 200 customers on a typical weekday.

The one-story brick station building was constructed in 1912 and is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. 

About NJ TRANSIT

NJ TRANSIT is the nation's largest statewide public transportation system providing more than 895,000 weekday trips on 261 bus routes, three light rail lines, 12 commuter rail lines and through Access Link paratransit service. It is the second largest transit system in the country with 164 rail stations, 61 light rail stations and more than 19,000 bus stops linking major points in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia.