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Rail
Overview
The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has a vital interest in preserving and improving the rail freight part of its transportation
network. Our state has approximately 1,000 miles of rail freight lines serving
customers large and small. The state is served by
14 short line railroads, 2 regional railroads and 3 national railroads
(pdf 42k).
Rail shipments allow cost effective movement of goods with less stress on the State’s highway system. Major commodities shipped by rail include
petrochemicals, including plastic pellets, construction materials, food products, raw materials and finished goods for manufacturers.
The State Rail Plan (pdf 91k) and its grant program supports New
Jersey’s economic activity by providing a strong, multi-modal transportation system that makes rail service available, safe and effective for as many
businesses as possible. Rail safety programs include grade crossing safety and inspection of
rail cars carrying hazardous materials.
NJDOT has produced annual updates of the New Jersey State Rail Plan since 1975 and has disbursed state funds for eligible
rail freight projects since 1983.
The State Rail Plan Projects selected for Fiscal Year 2009 is available here (pdf 23k).
The program to increase rail freight services has grown to 13 short lines, two regional railroads and one national railroad. It continues to be a
major factor in supporting short line viability, providing choices in transportation for New Jersey businesses and reducing truck traffic on our
highways.
In addition, New Jersey has participated with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, neighboring states and railroads in projects of regional
importance.
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