80 NJ Transit train stations aren’t accessible to the disabled. Money is on the way
NJ Transit funding to make train station more accessible to disabled NorthJersey.com
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East Orange NJ Transit Station Receives $83.3 Million Grant for Upgrades
Federal Grant Program Supports Accessibility and Infrastructure Improvements
The city of East Orange, with a population of approximately 70,000, has been advocating for accessibility improvements and repairs at its two NJ Transit stations since 2018. A significant step forward has been achieved with the announcement of an $83.3 million grant for the Brick Church station.
This grant is part of the All Stations Accessibility Program, established under the Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act signed into law two and a half years ago. The program aims to enhance accessibility and infrastructure across various transit stations.
NJ Transit’s Commitment to Sustainable Development
NJ Transit has contributed an additional $20.9 million to qualify for the federal grant. Kevin Corbett, CEO and president of NJ Transit, emphasized that the investment extends beyond a single station, potentially revitalizing the entire neighborhood with mixed-use residential developments.
The project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by improving public transportation and supporting economic growth.
Planned Upgrades for Brick Church Station
A four-year construction program is set to take place at Brick Church station, including:
- Installation of two elevators
- High-level platforms
- Security cameras and safety measures
- Renovation of pedestrian tunnel and stairways
Addressing Accessibility Challenges in U.S. Rail Stations
Many rail stations in the U.S., especially older ones, are not accessible to individuals with disabilities. This federal grant program, with a budget of $1.7 billion over five years, aims to modernize these facilities to meet current accessibility standards.
Veronica Vanterpool, acting administrator of the Federal Transit Administration, highlighted that out of 3,720 rail stations in the country, 951 are not accessible to those with disabilities. This initiative seeks to ensure that public transportation serves as a lifeline of opportunity for all.
Support from Local and Federal Representatives
State Sen. Britnee Timberlake and Mayor Ted Green have been vocal advocates for modernizing transit stations in East Orange. Their efforts, along with support from U.S. Reps. Mikie Sherrill and Rob Menendez and the late U.S. Rep. Donald Payne, have been instrumental in securing the grant.
Despite this progress, more than 80 of the 166 NJ Transit stations are not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Continuous efforts and funding are required to maintain and improve accessibility across all stations.
Future Goals and Continued Advocacy
While celebrating the grant for Brick Church station, Timberlake reminded attendees that further work and investment are necessary to sustain momentum. The focus now shifts to securing funds for upgrades at the East Orange station, which also lacks ADA compliance.
The commitment to improving public transportation infrastructure in New Jersey is a testament to the ongoing pursuit of sustainable development and equal access for all community members.
Analysis of the Article
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Specific targets under the mentioned SDGs that can be identified based on the article’s content include:
- Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure
- Target 11.2: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all
- Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article implies several indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
- Indicator for Target 9.1: The investment in infrastructure upgrades at NJ Transit’s Brick Church station
- Indicator for Target 11.2: The installation of elevators and high-level platforms to improve accessibility
- Indicator for Target 10.2: The number of rail stations that become accessible to people with disabilities as a result of the upgrades
4. Create a table with three columns titled ‘SDGs, Targets and Indicators” to present the findings from analyzing the article.
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure | Investment in infrastructure upgrades at NJ Transit’s Brick Church station |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.2: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all | Installation of elevators and high-level platforms to improve accessibility |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all | Number of rail stations that become accessible to people with disabilities as a result of the upgrades |
Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.
Fuente: northjersey.com
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