Bipartisan Bill Aims to Streamline Commute for Raritan Valley Line Riders

WASHINGTON— commuters on NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley line could see relief from rush-hour train transfers if a newly reintroduced bipartisan bill gains traction. Congressman Tom Kean Jr. (R-District 7) and Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-District 12) are again pushing the One Seat Ride Act, legislation that would mandate a federal cost-benefit analysis of implementing direct train service to New York city during peak hours.

The Plight of the Raritan Valley Line Commuter

Currently, the Raritan Valley Line, serving over 23,000 commuters daily, forces passengers to switch trains at Newark Penn Station during peak commuting times. This transfer adds unneeded time to already lengthy commutes, impacting work-life balance and overall productivity.While one-seat rides are available during off-peak hours, the absence of direct service during the busiest times creates a critically important inconvenience.

Legislators Voice Support for Streamlined Service

Kean emphasized the personal impact of inefficient commutes, stating, “Long, inefficient rush-hour commutes mean lost time at kids’ sporting events and missed family dinners for countless households in our area.” He further argued, “No one should have to switch between multiple trains just to get to New York City. This study will be the first to highlight on a national scale the inefficiencies of multi-stop journeys and the impact on our economy. Commuters in New Jersey deserve better.”

Coleman echoed these sentiments,noting,“The Raritan Valley Line serves over 23,000 commuters each day – and many of those commuters have to switch trains at Newark Penn Station during peak commuting hours,unnecessarily extending an already lengthy commute.” She added,”This report is a necessary step towards a more efficient system that better serves the hard working people of New Jersey,allowing them to spend more of their valuable time with their families.”

Economic and Community Impact

The potential for direct train service has been a long-standing objective for communities along the Raritan Valley Line. The anticipation surrounding the construction of a new rail tunnel under the hudson River, slated for completion in 2035, has already spurred economic development.The prospect of easier access to Manhattan has fueled an apartment construction boom in towns along the line, revitalizing downtown areas and attracting new residents.

Looking Ahead

The One Seat Ride Act directs the Secretary of Transportation to specifically analyze the obstacles preventing single-seat trips to Manhattan on New Jersey’s Raritan Valley Line during peak hours. A similar bill, sponsored by kean, passed the House of Representatives in December 2023 with overwhelming support, demonstrating the bipartisan appeal of this initiative.

The implementation of direct train service to Manhattan has been a goal for decades for towns along the Raritan Valley Line from Union County to Hunterdon County.

The Path Forward for Raritan Valley Line Commuters

The re-introduction of the one seat Ride Act represents a renewed effort to address the commuting challenges faced by thousands of New Jersey residents. By mandating a complete cost-benefit analysis, the bill seeks to pave the way for a more efficient and convenient transportation system. A streamlined commute translates to more time with family, increased productivity, and a stronger local economy. Commuters are encouraged to contact their representatives and voice their support for this crucial legislation.

What specific actions can individuals take to support the passage of the One Seat Ride Act?

Streamlining commutes: An Exclusive Interview on the One Seat Ride Act