NJ TRANSIT has taken another step in contributing to the revitalization of the City of Camden by initiating Phase 2 of the Walter Rand Transformation Center (WRTC) Improvement Project. The second phase of the projects focuses on finalizing the concept plan and bringing the project up to 30% design. On Sep. 14, the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors approved the advancement to the second phase during a meeting.
“The Board’s approval for Phase 2 of the WRTC Improvement Project marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to revitalize South Jersey’s transportation network,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin S. Corbett. “This phase will bring us closer to providing a more efficient and integrated transit hub for the region, contributing at the same time to the broader development goals of the City of Camden.”
During the October 2021 board meeting, the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors approved a contract with HNTB Corporation of New York for Conceptual, Preliminary and Final Engineering Services, with funding authorization of Phase 1 of the project. The first phase, which was completed by HNTB in May 2023, revolved around conceptual development services.
Now that approval has been granted, HNTB is authorized to begin Phase 2 of the project without surpassing $6,997,708, plus five percent for contingencies. In addition to finalizing the concept plan and bringing the design up to 30%, the second phase will include other engineering and environmental permitting tasks.
“NJ TRANSIT is committed to investing in our facilities and their surrounding communities,” said New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti. “The improvements to the Walter Rand Transportation Center will enhance our services and improve the customer experience, while revitalizing the City of Camden and advancing its economic renaissance.”
Once completed the WRTC Improvement Project will replace the existing building with an expanded multi-purpose transit center that includes an improved link, making transportation in South Jersey easier. The new center will also make better accommodations for the 26 bus lines in the facility, provide improved intermodal connectivity with the PATCO Speedline subway and the River LINE light rail, support intercity independent bus services and provide an opportunity to integrate with zero-emission buses. The WRTC Improvement Project will also feature additional parking and potential administrative offices.