New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer says Amtrak is sitting on funds that could be used to upgrade rails and overheard wires -- something NJ Transit rail riders are desperate to see happen. August 13, 2024.
© Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com / © David R. Lutman / © Bob Karp/Morristown Daily Record / USA TODAY NETWORK
(Glen Rock, NJ) – New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer, a Democrat, says NJ Transit commuters have endured a “summer of hell.” It’s hard to disagree when you look at the numbers, and listen to the horror stories. Trains have repeatedly been delayed or cancelled as a result of issues in recent months.
Gottheimer says in June 657 NJ transit trains were cancelled. Of those, 415 were blamed on Amtrak issues. That’s led to a demand from Gottheimer: time to fix this, Amtrak.
The elected official says Amtrak has yet to use a $6 billion grant that is supposed to be put toward fixing rails and low, hanging, overhead wires. So, Gottheimer is pushing the “All-Aboard Act,” which would require that railroads issue refunds for travelers who experience delays of three hours or longer.
Gottheimer was a vocal opponent of the MTA’s Manhattan congestion pricing plan, arguing it would hurt New Jersey commuters who drive into New York City — while also increasing pollution in some communities. The mass transit system would need to step up its game significantly if congestion pricing is put into effect, as commuters would move away from cars in favor of buses and trains.
