Advocating for equitable allocation of one-seat ride for Raritan Valley Line residents
What is the Raritan Valley Mayors' Alliance?
The Case for the One-Seat Ride
Although the RVL is one of the fastest growing NJ Transit train lines, one-seat ride allocation has not changed to accommodate an increase in ridership. The introduction of dual locomotives, which enable one seat rides, were manufactured in anticipation of the completion of the ARC tunnel. When the ARC project was canceled in 2013, NJ Transit allocated dual locomotives based upon ridership at that time. The end result was enhanced service, including one-seat rides for many lines, except RVL. Since 2013, ridership on the RVL has surpassed the North Jersey Coast Line ridership and continues to grow at a rapid pace. In spite of this, it remains one of only two train rides without peak one-seat ride to New York Penn Station.
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For further information, view the presentation, "The Case for Raritan Valley One Seat Ride"
Scheduled Commute
Rider takes 6:29pm train from NY Penn Station.
Arrives at 6:47pm at Newark Penn Station
Rider walks to Platform 5
Rider catches 7:00pm train out of Newark and arrives at 7:24pm in Westfield
Total Commute Time
45 minutes
Minutes
But if there is a delay...
Rider takes 6:29pm train from NY Penn Station.
Arrives at 7:10pm at Newark Penn Station
Rider runs to Platform 5
Rider waits 25 minutes for 7:35pm train and arrives at 7:56pm in Westfield
Total Commute Time
87 minutes
Minutes
The Gateway Tunnel and Its Impact on the Raritan Valley Line
The Gateway Program is a transformative infrastructure project that could finally bring peak-hour one-seat rides and more reliable service to the Raritan Valley Line. By expanding rail capacity and eliminating key bottlenecks—like the one near Newark targeted by the Hunter Flyover—Gateway would help unlock faster, more direct commutes for thousands of RVL riders.
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In addition to improving train performance, Gateway also supports broader goals like economic growth, environmental sustainability, and better-connected communities. Local initiatives are underway to enhance station areas, improve last-mile access, and promote transit-oriented development throughout the RVL corridor.