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Work is slated to begin this month on a major project to replace the Raritan River Bridge.

The NJ Transit board of directors in December awarded Skanska a $444.4 million contract for construction of the new Raritan River Bridge. Along the North Jersey Coast Line, the crossing spans the Raritan River between Perth Amboy and South Amboy. The current, century-plus-old structure suffered damage during Superstorm Sandy.

Key details of the bid-build project include:

• Demolition of the existing swing bridge superstructure as well as construction of new vertical lift bridge towers, lift span, two flanking systems, and communication and signal systems
• Newly constructed bridge will provide additional vertical clearance above the 100-year flood elevation, positioned further from the ocean; aiming to ensure sustainability, resiliency and safety
• Enhanced navigation channel geometry at the lift span to minimize vessel collision hazards and also associated repair costs with the bridge’s pier protection systems
• New mechanical and electrical systems that provide more consistent movable span operations, reducing maintenance costs
• Overhead catenary work, landside earthwork and rail system work

Work will begin this month. The project expects to wrap up in 2029.

Skanska Koch Senior Vice President and General Manager Bill Matre said the global construction and development firm is excited about the project, which he says will enhance transportation efficiency and safety measures – while simultaneously ensuring the bridge’s long-term resilience for the region.

“We are honored to have been selected by NJ Transit to lead the replacement of this vital bridge that serves as a critical passageway for over 10,000 daily commuters and two million tons of freight annually,” said Matre.