NEWARK, N.J. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced $99.5 million in funding for NJTRANSIT’s Meadowlands Outdoor Charging Facility. The grant is part of the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) FY24 Low and No Emission Grant Program and will be used for 67 zero-emission buses and the corresponding charging infrastructure. This project builds on a $37.7 million Federal Highway Administration award from September 2023 for the implementation of the initial phase of a Battery Electric Bus depot at the Meadowlands Bus Garage.
“This federal grant is a win for our economy, the environment, and the people of New Jersey,” said Senator Booker. “This funding will not only modernize New Jersey’s transportation infrastructure and enhance the public transportation experience for commuters, but will also help us meet our climate goals, clean up our air, and improve public health for our communities. I was proud to secure this funding and look forward to seeing the impact that it has for communities in New Jersey.”
The Meadowlands Outdoor Charging Facility will utilize a canopy style with pantographs that supply electricity to buses. This project will allow New Jersey Transit to shelter, charge, and maintain its battery-electric bus fleet, while increasing service and advancing environmental justice throughout the state.
These projects are critical parts of NJT's Garage Modernization Program and are consistent with its goal of achieving a zero-emissions fleet by 2040.
In April 2024, Senator Booker wrote a letter to Acting FTA Administrator Vanterpool in support of NJTRANSIT’s application for the Low and No Emission Grant Program for the Meadowlands Outdoor Charging Facility.