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November 13, 2025|Commuter/Regional

NJT Slates $917MM Multilevel I, II Overhaul

Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-Chief
Westbound NJT North Jersey Coast Line train 3231—nine MultiLevels hauled by an ALP46 electric—crosses the Navesink River Bridge, prior to stopping at Red Bank station. William C. Vantuono photo.

New Jersey Transit’s 429 Alstom (originally Bombardier)-built Multilevel I and II railcars are approaching 20 years of service and due for a recommended mid-life overhaul. NJT on Nov. 12 proceeded with its fleet modernization efforts as the agency’s Board of Directors authorized $917 million to overhaul the fleet.

Funding not to exceed $917,058,512.41, plus 10% for contingencies, was authorized to overhaul NJT’s fleet of 329 first-generation Multilevel I vehicles, delivered between 2006-2009, and 100 Multilevel II vehicles, delivered between 2012-2013. An Expression of Interest (EOI) process “will be used to identify qualified rail vehicle overhaul contractors with proven experience in large-scale commuter railcar mid-life overhaul programs,” the agency said. “The EOI process will invite contractors to submit their qualifications, capabilities, and relevant project experience. Based on the evaluation of EOIs received, NJT will develop a list of contractors that will be invited to participate in the final procurement and contract award stage.”

The scope of work, includes, but is not limited to:

  • “Ensuring the cars are in a state of good repair and improving the systems to ensure their reliability, and compatibility and interoperability with new Multilevel III vehicles, supplied by Alstom.
  • “Enhancing passenger comfort with upgraded amenities and features to match Multilevel III vehicles such as USB charging ports.
  • “Promoting sustainability with energy-efficient systems and materials where feasible.”

The contract award will be made in early 2026, according to NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri, NJ.com reported; the rebuilds will take 10 years, with an estimated completion in 2036.

NJT is currently taking delivery of 374 Multilevel III railcars, which will replace the agency’s fleet of single-level cars including the oldest and “least reliable Arrow III electric multiple-unit cars.” In addition to increased mechanical reliability, the new cars will provide additional seating capacity and accessibility, higher top speeds of up to 110 mph and enhanced onboard amenities for customers including USB charging ports. The Multilevel IIIs on order include self-powered (AC catenary) cars—a new design—non-powered cab (control) cars and trailers.

Multilevel III

NJT in December 2018 placed its first Multilevel III order with Bombardier Transit Corp. (now Alstom) for 113 cars. In February 2022, the agency exercised an option for an additional 25. In July 2024, NJT exercised a third option for 36, and in September 2025, it exercised options worth $1.26 billion for an additional 200 powered and non-powered Multilevel IIIs and 12 ALP45-DP (dual-power, diesel/catenary-electric) locomotives.

“Modernizing our fleet isn’t just about adding new vehicles—it’s also about keeping our current ones in a state of good repair for the people who ride them every day,” said Kris Kolluri in a Nov. 12 statement. “This overhaul is part of our broader effort to fully modernize our rail and bus fleets by 2031, ensuring safe, reliable, and modern service for our customers systemwide.”

According to NJ.com, Kolluri said “he will leave the agency as planned in early 2026 and not seek reappointment in the Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill administration.” Appointed by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, Kolluri took the throttle at NJT earlier this year, following the resignation of Kevin S. Corbett.

Further Reading:

Railway Age Executive Editor Marybeth Luczak contributed to this report.