New Jersey Transit has now decided to replace the foggy windows of its multilevel rail cars to improve passenger safety and comfort. UV rays, heat and other environmental factors caused the polycarbonate material to deteriorate, reducing the visibility of the windows and causing discomfort to passengers.
The replacement project was estimated to be $8 million in 2022, but due to inflation and other reasons, it has now increased to $15 million. The project will replace about 15,000 windows, which the agency will do in a phased manner to minimize service disruptions.
Problem: Effect of foggy windows
Visibility issues:
The degradation of polycarbonate material due to UV light, heat and other environmental factors has caused the windows to become foggy. This makes it difficult for passengers to see outside and for operators to clearly see the surroundings.
Travel experience:
Low visibility can lead to an uncomfortable travel experience for passengers. They may feel claustrophobic and confused. Also, onboard audio announcements are not as effective when passengers cannot clearly see station signs or landmarks.
Safety concerns:
Lack of clear visibility poses serious safety hazards. Passengers and operators may not be able to recognise oncoming obstacles, signals or other trains, which may increase the risk of accidents. Also, response to emergency situations may be delayed as it becomes difficult to assess and address the situation immediately.
Steps to address the issue
Replacement project:
New Jersey Transit has decided to replace approximately 15,000 windows in its fleet. The project was previously estimated to cost $8 million in 2022, but now the cost has increased to $15 million due to inflation and other reasons.
Phased approach:
This replacement process is being implemented in a phased manner, so as to minimize service disruptions. In the first phase, 400 windows have already been ordered, and the replacement process will begin after the windows arrive and are inspected.
Improved windows:
The new windows will have high optical clarity, excellent UV resistance, high resistance to scratches and chemicals, and will be virtually unbreakable. This will give passengers better visibility and a more aesthetic travel experience.
Commitment to transparency:
New Jersey Transit will give passengers frequent updates on the progress of the window replacement project through its website and social media channels. The agency aims to complete all installations by the end of 2025.
New Jersey Transit’s Window Replacement Program: Improving Visibility and Travel Experience
New Jersey Transit is now replacing foggy windows on its multilevel trains to improve passenger experience and visibility. The project will replace approximately 15,000 windows in a phased manner with minimal disruption to service. The new windows will have higher optical clarity, UV resistance and greater durability to prevent fogging. This comprehensive repair and maintenance program aims to ensure clear visibility and safer travel for passengers.
New Jersey Transit’s Clear Windows: Better Visibility and Safer Travel for Passengers
Clear windows on New Jersey Transit trains enhance visibility for passengers, making their travel experience more pleasant and less claustrophobic. Improved visibility makes it easier for passengers to see outside, reducing anxiety and confusion. For operators, clear windows provide better situational awareness, allowing them to safely guide passengers and respond to potential hazards immediately. This ensures an overall safer journey for everyone, reducing the risk of accidents and providing a smoother travel experience.
Leading the Change: Governor Phil Murphy and CEO Chris Kolluri
Governor Phil Murphy has played a key role in improving New Jersey’s transit system. In December 2024, he appointed Chris Kolluri as President and CEO of NJ TRANSIT, replacing Kevin Corbett. Governor Murphy expressed confidence in Kolluri’s leadership and emphasized the importance of a reliable, efficient, and modern transit system for New Jersey residents.
Chris Kolluri has extensive experience at NJ TRANSIT. Previously, he served as CEO of the Gateway Development Commission, where he oversaw the construction of the new Hudson River Rail Tunnel. The transit system is expected to see significant improvements under his leadership.
Long-Term Benefits: Steps Toward Continuous Improvement
New Jersey Transit (NJ TRANSIT) is working on a variety of initiatives to further improve the passenger experience. The agency has launched a sustainability planning process that aims to create a framework for a clean, resilient and equitable future that will lead to long-term improvements in transit services.
Also, NJ TRANSIT has introduced its first 10-year strategic plan, offering a clear vision for building a better customer experience and sustainable communities throughout New Jersey.
These efforts will give passengers a more reliable, efficient and comfortable transit system that will positively impact their everyday lives.
Safety Standards Review: Special Focus on Safety
New Jersey Transit (NJ TRANSIT) is strengthening safety standards through a project to replace fogged windows on its multi-level rail cars. The move improves passenger visibility, which reduces response times in emergency situations and reduces the risk of accidents.
Additionally, NJ TRANSIT has released its first 10-year strategic plan, outlining a vision for improved customer experience and sustainable communities throughout New Jersey. The plan prioritizes safety measures that ensure passenger safety.
Through these initiatives, NJ TRANSIT is enhancing the safety and reliability of its transit system, providing passengers with a safe and comfortable travel experience.
Passenger Feedback: Reactions to Window Replacement
Following the replacement of foggy windows on multi-level rail cars by New Jersey Transit (NJ TRANSIT), passengers have responded positively. Clean windows have improved visibility, allowing passengers to see outside clearly. This has made the travel experience more pleasant and less claustrophobic.
Additionally, clean windows are providing operators with better situational awareness, allowing them to navigate safely and respond quickly to potential hazards. This contributes to an overall safer journey for everyone, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring a smoother journey.
A Step Towards Safe and Comfortable Travel
New Jersey Transit (NJ TRANSIT) has improved passenger visibility and safety by replacing the foggy windows on its multi-level rail cars. This initiative is helping passengers see outside clearly, making the travel experience more pleasant and less claustrophobic.
Also, clear windows are giving operators better situational awareness, allowing them to navigate safely and respond quickly to potential hazards. This contributes to overall safer travel for everyone, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring a smoother journey.
Through these efforts, NJ TRANSIT is enhancing the safety and reliability of its transit system, giving passengers a safe and comfortable travel experience.
