(The following story appeared on the Star-Ledger website on March 28, 2009.)
NEWARK, N.J. — NJ Transit held a groundbreaking ceremony at the Somerville train station yesterday touting improvements that will make the station fully accessible for customers with disabilities.
According to NJ Transit, work will begin later this spring and will include two new platforms that will be level with train doors, eliminating the need for stairs. Also, two service elevators will be adapted for customer use, providing access between the pedestrian tunnel, street level and platform level.
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“This project demonstrates NJ Transit’s unwavering and ongoing commitment to improve access to public transportation for all New Jersey residents,” said Stephen Dilts, commissioner of the Department of Transportation. “And it helps stimulate the economy by creating about 165 jobs during construction.”
NJ Transit is retrofitting 130 rail and light rail stations to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
“These improvements are wonderful news for our residents and commuters who use the station every day and also provide a great benefit for those who have the need for these accessibility improvements,” said Somerville Mayor Brian Gallagher.
When completed in 2010, passengers will find new 710-foot-long platforms with canopies and heated shelters as well as a new climate-controlled waiting room and ticket office with public restrooms built on the “inbound” side of the station.