South Jersey’s New Transit Plan: NJ Transit Advances Glassboro-Camden Light Rail Despite Opposition

NJ Transit is proceeding with the Glassboro-Camden Line (GCL), an 18-mile light rail system connecting Glassboro in Gloucester County to Camden.

The project, fully funded by the state with an initial $250 million, will restore passenger rail service along an existing freight corridor.

The line will include stations in several municipalities, including Pitman, Sewell, Woodbury, and Woodbury Heights.

At a conference hosted by the Southern New Jersey Development Council, NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri confirmed pre-construction work would begin in 2025.

The project is in the “30% design” phase, with construction expected to start within the next few years.

The estimated completion date is 2028.

South Jersey has an incomplete rail network, forcing many commuters to rely on limited bus routes.

The GCL is intended to provide frequent and reliable transportation, with trains arriving every 15 minutes.

The goal is to improve connectivity in the region, particularly along the “eds and meds” corridor, which includes Rowan University, Rutgers-Camden, and major healthcare institutions.

Public opinion on the project is divided.

Residents of Glassboro voted in favor of the rail line, while voters in Pitman, Mantua Township, Wenonah, and Woodbury Heights passed resolutions opposing it.

Concerns include noise, increased traffic, and potential declines in property values.

Brooklawn in Camden County also rejected the project.

Camden has not held a public vote.

NJ Transit is addressing these concerns by evaluating “quiet zones” at railroad crossings to reduce noise.

The Delaware River Port Authority, the project manager, is also working on strategies to minimize disruptions in residential areas.

In addition to the GCL, NJ Transit is moving forward with a $250 million renovation of the Walter Rand Transportation Center in Camden.

The station, a major regional transit hub, will undergo a full modernization, including improved facilities, retail spaces, and possibly a hotel.

Governor Phil Murphy has prioritized advancing both the GCL and the Walter Rand Transportation Center redevelopment before the end of his term in 2026.

Kolluri, appointed in late 2024, is responsible for overseeing project progress.

The Glassboro-Camden Line is expected to provide a critical transit link in South Jersey, supporting economic growth and expanding transportation options.

With funding secured and pre-construction set to begin, NJ Transit is moving forward despite opposition from some communities.