State To Take Full Control Of South Jersey Rail Service After Years Of Issues

SOUTH JERSEY — NJ Transit will take full control of the River Line, separating the issue-riddled light rail from the company that operates it.

Although the River Line is part of NJ Transit's system, Alstom was contracted to operate and maintain it. But on Wednesday, both entities announced that NJ Transit will assume those responsibilities by the end of the year.

"This mutually agreed decision reflects the evolving investment needs of the service, which have grown beyond the current scope of Alstom’s contract covering River LINE operations and maintenance," NJ Transit and Alstom said in a joint statement. "This transition will enable NJ TRANSIT to be best positioned to shape and implement the next steps that will strengthen and enhance the future of the service."

The River Line travels along New Jersey's riverside communities, extending from Trenton to Camden. It is the only rail serving Burlington County's riverside communities.

In recent years, the River Line has been subject to increasing complaints of delays and cancelations.

State Sen. Troy Singleton (D, NJ-7), whose district include several impacted communities, welcomed NJ Transit's takeover. He said he will continue to hold NJ Transit accountable in hopes that the system will improve.

"For years, my office has heard from frustrated commuters about the lack of communication, poor conditions, and unreliable service on the River LINE," Singleton said in a statement. "Specifically, riders here in Burlington County and beyond have had to endure inconvenient cancellations and delays, little to no communication, dirty and unkept stations and trains, and more."