The proposed $2.05 billion AirTrain replacement at Newark Liberty International Airport remains on track now that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Final Environmental Assessment (EA) for the project.
On Aug. 13, the FAA issued a Finding of No Significant Impact/Record of Decision, based on a review of 17 areas of assessment. The FAA record of decision follows the completion of a 30-day public comment period. The findings, located on the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s website, include public and written comments made during the public comment period.
“This decision is a key step in replacing the long-outdated AirTrain,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “New Jerseyans and travelers deserve a world-class transit system at Newark Airport, and we are much closer to attaining that reality with the FAA’s latest action.”
The FAA’s decision allows the Port Authority to work toward state-of-the-art mass rail transit systems that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion while providing a safer, more accessible ride for air travelers. In July, the FAA also issued a record of decision for a planned LaGuardia AirTrain following an environmental review.
“The current AirTrain Newark has outlived its usefulness,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “Its replacement will create a new rail system that offers a 21st-century customer experience for airport visitors and employees, as we continue to reimagine and redevelop Newark Liberty Airport.”
Construction on the $2.05 billion Newark Liberty project is scheduled to begin in mid-2022, with new service set to start in 2026. When completed, the new AirTrain Newark will consist of a 2.5-mile elevated guideway train system that will replace the existing outmoded AirTrain. The original AirTrain opened in 1996. The Port Authority said the original suffers frequent breakdowns and delays.