TRENTON, N.J. — NJ Transit has unveiled the first renovated trainset on its light rail River Line, featuring a revamped interior and an engine overhaul as part of the ongoing effort to improve the service between Trenton and Camden, N.J.
The diesel trainset built by Switzerland’s Stadler has been wrapped to mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence [see “News photo: NJ Transit light rail marks anniversary …,” Trains.com, Nov. 2, 2025].
“As we finalize the process of assuming operation of the River Line, every upgrade we’re making is focused on improving reliability, communications and the customer experience,” NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri said in a press release today (Jan. 9, 2026). “This work builds on the systemwide modernization already underway across our bus and rail fleets, as we also maintain an equal commitment to investing in the quality of commute for our light rail customers.”
NJ Transit reached an agreement last September to take over operation of the River Line from contract operator Alstom, which had gained the contract through its purchase of Bombardier Transportation [see “NJ Transit to take over …,” Trains.com, Sept. 3, 2025]. At that time, a statement from NJ Transit and Alstom said the investment needs for the diesel-powered light rail operation, which dates to 2004, had “grown beyond the current scope of Alstom’s contract.”
As part of the transition, the NJ Transit board has authorized a contract for Kinkisharyo International to take over maintenance of the River Line equipment fleet. NJ Transit will oversee operations and maintenance of the right-of-way and stations. The transition will be complete in the first quarter of this year, NJ Transit said. The agency and Kinkisharyo are working together on rehabilitation of the interiors on 14 trainsets, which feature new seats, flooring, LED lighting, and updated signage, among other features. NJ Transit is also preparing a Request for Proposals to fully replace the River Line fleet.
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