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Middlesex County officials recently announced the latest developments for the North Brunswick Train Station project.

Middlesex County Improvement Authority (MCIA) manages the project. The effort received $50 million in funding via the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund (TTF).

Under a partnership with NJ Transit forged in 2020, MCIA serves as the project manager overseeing the design and construction of the project. WSP USA serves as the contracted design and engineering firm managed by MCIA. The construction is being performed by AECOM. MCIA is also coordinating input from stakeholders including NJ Transit, Amtrak, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), the township of North Brunswick and Middlesex County.

In a Jan. 2 press release, officials marked the recent 30% design approval and funding agreement with NJ Transit for the project’s final design phase.

Officials say the project is now progressing toward 60% design completion. The construction drawings cover items including the:

• Passenger platform;
• Overhead pedestrian bridges;
• Foundation elements;
• Steel connections;
• Structural support methods; and
• Department of Environmental Protection approval process.

Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald Rios said the MCIA has streamlined what is typically a cumbersome process.

“Collaboration amongst all agencies through regular design team meetings has been a major benefit in moving this project forward expeditiously,” said Rios.

Moving ‘full steam ahead’

MCIA Executive Director H. James Polos stressed the importance of these milestones. He noted the design phase transition from the conceptual stage to actual construction drawings.

“We are eagerly completing the necessary foundational work to move full steam ahead with construction of the new train station in the very near future,” said Polos.

North Brunswick Mayor Francis Womack lauded MCIA for its work managing this effort.

“And celebrate the steady progress for the train station we have sought, and which is now approaching 60% design completion,” said Womack.

“Our funding agreement and strong partnership with the MCIA underscore our shared commitment to delivering a modern, accessible, and efficient train station that will benefit North Brunswick and the surrounding communities for decades to come,” said NJ Transit President and CEO Kevin Corbett, who will step down Jan. 15.

MCIA Chairman James Nolan noted how the project is key to Middlesex County’s broader economic vision.

“The North Brunswick Train Station is a vital component of Middlesex County’s Destination 2040 strategic economic plan which will make Middlesex County a thriving, attractive destination to live, work and, and play for generations to come,” said Nolan. “Additionally, we expect the station to help manage traffic congestion along the Route 1 corridor – and provide a more sustainable way to travel and commute.”