Conrail’s New Jersey Bridge: Enhancing Freight Rail Operations

Conrail unveils the new Point-No-Point Bridge, a $200 million investment. This new structure boosts freight rail operations in New Jersey, replacing an older bridge.

Conrail’s New Jersey Bridge: Enhancing Freight Rail Operations
November 20, 2025 12:54 am
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Introduction

Conrail on Monday inaugurated the new Point-No-Point Bridge, which spans the Passaic River and connects Kearny and Newark, New Jersey, for freight-rail operations. The $200 million project, which replaced a bridge constructed in 1901, began in July 2022 and features a movable single-leaf bascule design.

Construction and Design

The new Point-No-Point Bridge features a single-leaf bascule design, allowing it to open and close within 10 minutes. This significantly improves operational efficiency compared to its predecessor, a swing span bridge built by the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1901, which required over five hours to open for marine traffic.

Project Ownership and Operation

The new bridge is owned by Conrail as part of its North Jersey operating district. It carries the P&H Line, which is used by Conrail, CSX, and Norfolk Southern Railway for freight transport.

Funding and Timeline

The $200 million project commenced in July 2022. Funding was provided by Conrail, alongside over $78 million in combined grants from the New Jersey Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad Administration.

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Conclusion

Conrail’s new Point-No-Point Bridge, a single-leaf bascule structure, has replaced the earlier swing span bridge. The project, costing $200 million, was completed with the support of state and federal grants and is a key part of Conrail’s North Jersey operations.

Company Summary

Conrail: Owns and operates the new Point-No-Point Bridge and is a freight rail operator in the North Jersey area.

CSX: A freight rail operator that utilizes the P&H Line.

Norfolk Southern Railway: A freight rail operator that utilizes the P&H Line.

New Jersey Department of Transportation: Provided grants for the bridge project.

Federal Railroad Administration: Provided grants for the bridge project.

Pennsylvania Railroad: Constructed the original bridge in 1901.

Technology

P&H Line: The rail line that the new Point-No-Point Bridge carries.

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