NJ Transit has approved a $917 million program to overhaul 429 Multilevel I and II railcars to extend service life, improve mechanical reliability, and ensure compatibility with future Multilevel III vehicles. The agency will apply an additional 10% contingency allowance to the authorization.
The Multilevel I cars entered service between 2006 and 2009, and the Multilevel II cars entered service between 2012 and 2013. NJ Transit will use an Expression of Interest process to identify qualified contractors for the mid-life overhaul program. Contractors will submit qualifications and project experience before NJ Transit invites selected firms to the final procurement stage.
The overhaul will upgrade mechanical systems, improve reliability, and align onboard features with the incoming Multilevel III fleet, including updated passenger amenities such as USB charging ports. The program will also incorporate energy-efficient components where feasible.
NJ Transit is also procuring 374 new Multilevel III cars that will replace older single-level vehicles and increase seating capacity and accessibility. The new fleet will operate at speeds up to 110 mph and will include enhanced onboard amenities.