New Jersey &#045; Tri-State Infrastructure News Network

Environment

New Jersey storm resource directory

Power out? Use our directory to track outages across New Jersey, report lost service directly to your utility and find nearby cooling centers during extreme heat.

Energy

Permit challenges rejected by appeals court as critical gas Pipeline Project moves forward

A federal appeals court has upheld New York’s water quality permits for the Northeast Supply Enhancement pipeline, rejecting a challenge from environmental organizations seeking to overturn the state’s approval. The ruling removes a significant legal hurdle for the major regional energy project, which will expand natural gas capacity through Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York. After years of permitting disputes and environmental review, construction on NESE is moving forward.

Energy

New Jersey requires data centers to report energy and water use

A new New Jersey law will require data centers to report how much energy and water they use.

Energy

Federal Court ruling on Climate SuperFund Legislation raises serious legal questions for New Jersey Lawmakers

A federal judge’s decision striking down New York’s controvesial Climate Change Superfund Act could derail New Jersey’s similar proposed program.

Policy

The 10 largest public school districts in New Jersey

What are the largest public school districts in New Jersey? The state’s 10 biggest districts serve communities ranging from dense urban centers to sprawling suburban regions. See the complete rankings and learn how geography, enrollment and infrastructure shape New Jersey’s largest school systems.

Policy

The 10 largest colleges in New Jersey

Students across New Jersey are packing their bags, moving into dorms and heading back to campus for a new school year. Rutgers University remains the state’s largest college, but which other schools make the top 10? Take a look at New Jersey’s largest colleges and the thousands of students they serve.

Policy

New study highlights project labor agreements as tool for New Jersey public construction

New research is taking a fresh look at project labor agreements — and what they can mean for cost, efficiency and workforce availability on New Jersey public construction projects.

Data Centers

As misinformation about data centers swirls around the internet, Holmdel developer seeks to provide clarity to community

As debate over a proposed data center at Bell Works intensifies, so too has a flood of information - and misinformation - circulating online about what the project would mean for Holmdel.

Policy

N.J. zoning ruling could create another hurdle for needed housing

New Jersey says it needs more housing. The state Supreme Court just made it easier for towns to say no.

Energy

Governor Sherrill Signs Power NJ Act, Launching Process for New Nuclear Energy Development

Governor Mikie Sherrill has signed the Power NJ Act, launching New Jersey's process to procure at least 1,100 megawatts of new nuclear generation. The bipartisan legislation includes safeguards to protect ratepayers while expanding reliable, around-the-clock energy generation to meet New Jersey's growing electricity demand.

Energy

Preserved farmland could generate renewable energy for neighboring properties under bipartisan bill

A bipartisan bill sponsored by Senators Latham Tiver and Bob Smith would allow qualifying renewable energy systems on preserved farmland to provide power or heat to adjacent properties under certain conditions. The legislation passed the Senate unanimously and now heads to the Assembly, where lawmakers will continue debate on the proposal.

Policy

South Brunswick emerging as a hub for New Jersey’s digital economy

Data centers are a critical part of the modern economy. With access to major fiber networks, transportation infrastructure, and power resources, South Brunswick is well-positioned to benefit from this rapidly expanding sector.

Data Centers

7 myths about data centers

Data centers have become one of the most debated forms of development in America.

Policy

New worker classification rules help protect responsible contractors and workers in New Jersey

New Jersey has officially adopted updated worker classification regulations aimed at strengthening fairness, clarity, and accountability for employers and workers alike. Industry leaders say responsible contractors should not be undercut by companies that misclassify workers to avoid labor standards and obligations. The new rules take effect October 1, 2026.

Policy

We’ve Heard This Before: The Reality Behind World Cup Projections

The World Cup is being sold as a massive economic win for New York and New Jersey. But past events tell a more complicated story. Big projections. Real public costs. And a gap that isn’t always clear until it’s over. Before we take the numbers at face value, it’s worth looking at what we’ve learned before.

Business

The buildings behind every click

Before most people finish their morning coffee, they've already relied on a data center dozens of times. Every text message, streamed song, online purchase and bank transaction depends on a network of facilities working behind the scenes.

Energy

New Jersey poll shows broad support for natural gas expansion

A new Fairleigh Dickinson University poll found 76% of respondents favor building new natural gas plants in New Jersey, with support cutting across party lines and demographic groups. The results reflect a broader trend in the poll, with voters prioritizing increased energy generation and lower costs.

Public Transit

A look at NJ TRANSIT’s new Multilevel III rail cars

NJ TRANSIT’s new Multilevel III rail cars mark a major step in modernizing one of the nation’s busiest commuter rail systems. The 374-car fleet will replace aging Arrow III and Comet equipment, expand passenger capacity and improve service across New Jersey and into New York Penn Station.

Data Centers

The promise and peril of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI is reshaping New Jersey’s workforce in real time. As layoffs hit pharma and tech, the state is investing in AI hubs, data centers and workforce training to prepare for what comes next.

Business

Our Infrastructure Matters – Episode 9

“Our Infrastructure Matters” is a news program highlighting important infrastructure projects and issues throughout the region. From roads and bridges to rails and tunnels....

Energy

Sherrill signs nuclear reform law at Salem, positioning state for clean‑energy renaissance [BINJE]

Governor Mikie Sherrill signed legislation at the Salem Nuclear Power Plant removing a decades-old barrier that effectively blocked new nuclear development. With demand rising and energy costs climbing, state leaders are positioning New Jersey to lead the next generation of clean, carbon-free power.

Environment

Moss Landing, California’s toxic legacy and what New Jersey must learn

A year after the Moss Landing battery fire, the environmental and human impacts are still unfolding in California. As NJ moves towards similar battery storage at scale, what lessons can be learned from the infamous fire?

Policy

Historic building collapses in Trenton, demolition now unavoidable [nj.com]

A historic building in Trenton collapsed. Officials say the structure had deteriorated beyond repair, raising broader concerns about aging infrastructure and preservation across New Jersey.

Public Transit

A Brief History of NJ Transit: Part III – Pandemic to the Future

NJ TRANSIT’s history is a cautionary tale of how short-term fixes and political avoidance can undermine even the most vital public institutions.

Public Transit

A Brief History of NJ Transit: Part II – Critical Infrastructure in Perpetual Crisis

Part II of a deep dive in the origins, successes, and challenges of the largest statewide public transportation system in the nation

Policy

The New Jersey Turnpike was meant to be free. So what happened?

The New Jersey Turnpike was meant to be free. When it opened in the 1950s, tolls were sold as temporary. Drivers would pay until construction bonds were paid off. Then the booths would come down. That never happened. Here’s why.

Environment

Faces of the Environment: Mike Martucci, EPA Region 2 Administrator

Martucci steps into the role with a blend of political experience, business leadership, and agricultural stewardship that shaped both expectations and skepticism.

Public Transit

A Brief History of NJ Transit: Part I – Origin Story and Seeds of Doubt

For nearly half a century, NJ Transit has been dogged by a recurring pattern of fiscal instability—short-term fixes, capital-to-operating transfers, mounting debt, and deferred maintenance. How did we get here? Where are we going? Part 1.

Energy

Managing the State’s Surging Energy Demand [NJ Business]

A new study by consulting firm Grid Strategies reports that while peak electricity use is expected to increase between nearly four and six percent over...

Energy

NJ Senate Passes Bill Aimed at Data Center Energy & Water Use [ROI NJ]

The New Jersey Senate has approved a bill to require data center operators to provide energy and water usage reports to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities

Energy

Energy reform bills move forward as lawmakers target costs and capacity [New Jersey Globe]

NJ is taking an all-of-the-above approach to its energy future. A package of bills targeting rising utility costs, grid reliability and energy demand just cleared key committees.

Energy

Understanding the forces behind rising electric bills in New Jersey

Utilities are getting the blame for rising energy costs. But most of your electric bill isn’t set by them. So what’s really driving prices in New Jersey?

Environment

NJ green workforce initiative enters next phase with fresh funding [New Jersey Business Magazine]

NJEDA approved Phase 2 of the Green Workforce Training Grant, a $4 M initiative to fund training programs in the green economy, prioritizing overburdened communities.

Wastewater

Poop there it is!

Every flush tells a story. New Jersey is using wastewater surveillance to track viruses like flu, RSV and COVID-19, often before people even feel sick.

Drinking Water

Municipal water systems face infrastructure cost dilemma [TapInto]

Add Manasquan to the list of municipal water & sewer authorities that are dealing with upgrading aging water & sewer systems. The borough council...

Roads & Bridges

Two highways, one authority

New Jersey’s 2003 Turnpike–Parkway merger streamlined operations and reduced administrative duplication. As leaders debate spending restraint today, it remains a practical example of government consolidation that worked.

Energy

Energy expenses top concern for small business owners, NFIB reports [ROI-NJ]

Rising energy costs are hitting N.J. small businesses hard, NFIB survey shows.

Drinking Water

Trenton and the birth of municipal water in New Jersey

In 1859, Trenton became the first city in New Jersey to own and operate its own municipal water system. Take a look into the past at how a public vote helped lay the foundation for modern water infrastructure in the Garden State.

Economic Development

Cargo traffic rose at Port of NY and NJ in 2025 despite tariff uncertainty [ROI-NJ]

Cargo volume at the Port of NY & NJ rose in 2025 despite tariff uncertainty, up 2.3% from 2024 and marking the port’s third-busiest year on record.

Policy

Sherrill Budget Address Transcript and Word Cloud

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ugfYxy84Gc Word cloud of frequently-used words FULL TRANSCRIPT Lieutenant Governor Caldwell.Senate President Scutari. Speaker Coughlin. Majority Leaders Ruiz Greenwald. Republican Leaders Bucco DiMaio. Members of the 222nd...

Policy

Economic Engine: The growth of the Port of New York & New Jersey

Today, it stands not only as the largest container port on the East Coast, but as one of the most important economic engines in the United States.

Economic Development

North Brunswick Train Station plan advances to final design stage [BINJE]

The proposed North Brunswick Train Station is moving closer to construction. With 60% design approval secured, the project is entering the final engineering and design stage.

Policy

Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners passes resolution authorizing use of Project Labor Agreements

On February 26, 2026, the Board of Monmouth County Commissioners has passed a resolution authorizing all Monmouth County departments to use Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) on public...

Policy

Sherrill unveils budget plan centered on spending cuts and tax stability [BINJE]

Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s first budget proposal emphasizes no new taxes and spending cuts as New Jersey works to close a projected deficit.

Transportation

10 Longest Roads in New Jersey

New Jersey’s road network is richer than most people realize. From historic U.S. routes to the Garden State Parkway and Turnpike, these highways move millions of commuters, students and goods every day.

Energy

New Jersey explores sunset of fossil fuel power plants [New Jersey Monitor]

"New Jersey lawmakers are exploring a tectonic shift in the state’s energy policy that could phase out nearly all of its fossil fuel power plants in the coming decades and ensure they don’t return without a rewrite of the state constitution.

Data Centers

Inside the Kenilworth data center project: A closer look at the data center planned for Galloping Hill Road

New Jersey-based AI cloud company CoreWeave has released new details about its proposed Kenilworth data center, addressing some of the biggest questions residents have raised about the project.

Economic Development

Hoboken Connect project reshapes Hoboken Terminal area

The Hoboken Connect will be a new transit-centered district, combining historic restoration, new development and public open space at Hoboken Terminal.

Flood Mitigation

Federal earmarks bring $23.8 M for roads, water quality and storm resilience in Monmouth County [TAPinto]

More than $23.8M in federal funding is headed to Monmouth County to support water quality, storm resilience and public safety infrastructure.

Economic Development

New Jersey commercial real estate sales reach $1.5B, led by Middlesex and Morris [BINJE]

Northern and central New Jersey saw about $1.5B in commercial real estate sales in late 2025, led by strong warehouse activity in Middlesex and Morris counties, along with office and retail deals.

Roads & Bridges

Critical transit upgrades unlocking South Jersey’s potential [New Jersey Business Magazine]

"From the long-awaited completion of the Direct Connection project linking I-295 and Route 42 to expanded NJ Transit bus service and modernized freight rail corridors, the region is investing in infrastructure that will shape economic development for years to come."

Environment

The 10 Largest Superfund Sites in New Jersey: Inside the multibillion-dollar efforts to clean up the state’s most contaminated places.

New Jersey’s industrial past has left behind a toxic footprint. The state has more Superfund sites than any other in the nation. Explore the 10 costliest toxic sites, from Agent Orange waste to mercury-soaked marshes.

Environment

NJBIA, Building, Labor Groups Urge Sherrill Administration to Reconsider DEP Land Use Rules [New Jersey Business]

"We strongly support efforts to improve climate resilience and environmental protection. However, these goals must be pursued in a manner that is economically sound, administratively efficient, and compatible with New Jersey’s urgent need for housing, investment, and job creation."

Airports

Port Authority unveils $45B transportation overhaul [Construction Dive]

The Port Authority has proposed a record $45 billion capital plan that will shape transportation across New York and New Jersey through 2035. The plan funds major airport upgrades, a rebuilt Midtown Bus Terminal, and improvements to bridges, tunnels and transit systems.

Roads & Bridges

Portal North Bridge reaches final phase of construction: A long-standing bottleneck nears its end.

The Portal North Bridge has entered its final phase of construction, with the first trains scheduled to operate on the new bridge beginning Feb. 13. Once complete, the fixed-span structure will eliminate a major bottleneck on the Northeast Corridor.

Policy

Bordentown secures state funding for local road improvements [centraljersey.com]

Bordentown Township will receive more than $270,000 in NJDOT Municipal Aid funding to repave Vine Way and Cherry Lane and improve road safety and travel for residents.

Policy

New Jersey Gives Municipalities New Construction Tool with Landmark PLA Expansion

"The bill received overwhelming bipartisan support in the Legislature — passing the General Assembly by a 63–10 vote and the Senate by a 35–4 margin — an uncommon show of unity in today’s political climate."

Environment

Salt smarter not harder this winter [centraljersey.com]

NJ American Water and The Watershed Institute urge residents and municipalities to use winter road salt responsibly to protect water quality. Simple steps such as shoveling first, using only what you need and spreading salt efficiently can reduce environmental harm.

Policy

Homeowners may pay more to appeal property tax assessments in NJ [NJ Spotlight News]

New Jersey lawmakers are considering a plan to raise the fee homeowners must pay to challenge their property tax assessments with county tax boards. The filing fees haven’t been updated in decades, and under the legislation the cost to appeal could go up by roughly $50 for many residents.

Public Transit

Transitway project advances with $22M contract for Secaucus to Jersey City segment [ROI-NJ]

The Secaucus-Meadowlands Transitway would create a dedicated transit link between Secaucus Junction, the Meadowlands, and Jersey City. NJ Transit has now approved $22.2 million to move the project closer to reality.

Environment

The Faces of Infrastructure: Ed Potosnak, Acting Commissioner, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

"Potosnak’s nomination sends a clear signal about the Sherrill administration’s environmental priorities — and sets up an early test of how the new governor intends to reconcile climate ambition with economic and affordability concerns."

Public Transit

The New Faces of NJ Infrastructure: Priya Jain, New Jersey Department of Transportation

Priya Jain’s appointment represents a notable shift toward executive leadership grounded in engineering expertise and strategic growth experience — qualities that many see as critical for tackling the state’s complex transportation challenges

Public Transit

The Faces of Infrastructure: Kris Kolluri, NJ Transit/NJ Turnpike Authority

As NJ Transit and the Turnpike Authority move forward together under his stewardship, all eyes will be on how Kolluri turns strategic vision into everyday improvements for commuters and communities across the state.

Economic Development

The 10 largest projects awarded by the NJDOT in 2025

Where NJDOT spent its biggest dollars in 2025: • 60% bridges • 25% roads • 10% traffic systems • 6% climate resilience A breakdown of the state’s 10 largest transportation projects.

Environment

Winter Storm Contact Directory

List of state, county, and utility emergency contacts

Drinking Water

Trenton Water Works system fails again under ice, raising reliability concerns [The Jersey Vindicator]

Frazil ice once again clogged the Trenton Water Works intake, forcing a plant shutdown and water conservation advisory for more than 200,000 customers. Suburban mayors are calling for state intervention and long-term governance changes.

Energy

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 1

Full-text of Governor Sherrill's executive order on addressing rising energy costs

Energy

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 2

Full-text of Governor Sherrill's executive order on addressing increasing energy demand

Policy

New Jersey tolls, transit fares and bike-share prices rising in 2026 [nj.com]

Transportation costs rising in 2026: New Jersey tolls, transit fares and bike share rates are increasing for drivers, riders and cyclists alike. Plan ahead for higher costs on toll roads and bike-share trips.

Public Transit

The Long and Winding Road: Transportation Challenges for Governor Sherrill

Incoming governor Mikie Sherrill will be faced with a number of transportation challenges shaping mobility, economic competitiveness, and quality of life across the state.

Energy

NEWS RELEASE: New Jersey Labor Unions Announce New Coalition Dedicated to Climate Action, Affordability, and Union Jobs

“When union labor leads, everyone succeeds. If New Jersey is serious about lowering energy bills and meeting skyrocketing demand, we must start building energy here, and we must start now,” said Greg Lalavee, Business Manager of Operating Engineers Local 825. “Through Climate Jobs New Jersey, we are laying out a simple plan: build energy here, store it here, and put New Jersey back in charge of its own energy future.”

Data Centers

$20M NJ AI Hub fund launched to boost state’s AI startups [NJBIZ]

NJEDA and CoreWeave have launched a $20M NJ AI Hub Fund to support AI startups tied to the NJ AI Hub and boost innovation and job growth statewide.

Economic Development

PSEG readies electric grid for FIFA World Cup events [BINJE]

PSEG steps up to power the 2026 FIFA World Cup in New York-New Jersey. The World Cup is expected to place unprecedented demand on infrastructure. Reliable electricity will help keep the world’s biggest soccer tournament running smoothly.

Energy

Electric Slide – Energy Issues Facing Governor‑Elect Mikie Sherrill

Governor‑elect Sherrill inherits an energy landscape defined by skyrocketing costs, falling in-state electricity generation, stalled offshore wind, ambitious solar mandates, strained grid reliability, and rising NIMBY sentiment. Her leadership will be tested in balancing affordability with her aggressive clean energy targets.

Drinking Water

NJ American Water to buy Hopewell Borough water system in $6.4M deal [BINJE]

Hopewell Borough has signed a $6.4 million agreement to sell its municipal water system to New Jersey American Water. New Jersey American Water plans to invest roughly $7 million in system improvements over the first five years, including infrastructure upgrades and service reliability enhancements.

Drinking Water

Bridge Over Troubled Water – Water Priorities for Governor-Elect Sherrill

Governor Mikie Sherrill will be sworn in on January 20, 2026. The state’s aging drinking, waste, and storm water infrastructures will need her immediate attention.

Airports

Inside the $6.2 B Plan to Rebuild Terminal B at Newark Liberty [BINJE]

The Port Authority has announced a sweeping vision plan to rebuild Terminal B at Newark Liberty Airport. The 51-year-old facility is set to be replaced with a modern terminal and updated runways, taxiways, roadways and access systems.

Transportation

Route 130: New Jersey’s Most Dangerous Highway – Why safety fixes have lagged for decades

Route 130 in Burlington County is New Jersey’s most dangerous highway for pedestrians. Since 2009, 16 lives lost, and still no comprehensive overhaul. NJ's new Vision Zero plan could change that. Here's how Route 130 went from ignored to a top priority.

Energy

Waste to watts: New RNG facility opens in South Jersey

A new renewable natural gas (RNG) facility is officially online in Atlantic County, turning landfill gas into clean, pipeline-ready fuel for homes and businesses. This project marks the first time RNG will directly enter the South Jersey Gas system. A major step forward for clean energy in New Jersey.

Policy

34-Story Jersey City Tower to Replace Parking Lot with 360 Apartments, Including 90 Affordable Units [NJ.com]

A 34-story tower is set to replace a Jersey City parking lot with 360 apartments, including 90 affordable units. Another major step forward for transit-oriented growth in Journal Square.

Data Centers

How Much Water and Energy do Data Centers Consume? A New Jersey Bill Demands Answers. [Inside Climate News]

"The debate mirrored a broader balancing act playing out across the country between the promise of AI-fueled development with the great costs to water and energy."

Drinking Water

New Jersey Among States Calling for Monitoring of Microplastics in Drinking [Coast TV]

"Researchers have linked exposure to microplastics to an increased risk of certain cancers, yet the particles remain unregulated and unmonitored at the federal level."

Drinking Water

Towns Join Lawsuit Against Trenton Water Works [CentralJersey.com]

"In a six-page letter released in July to Trenton City Council and Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, Shawn LaTourette, the commissioner of the NJDEP, stated independent third-party evaluators found TWW at 'extremely high risk of systematic failure.'"

Policy

The crumbling tubes that carry the Northeast economy

Crews enter the 115-year-old Hudson River tunnels every night to keep 450 trains and 200,000 riders moving. Until the new Gateway tunnels open, this link between NJ and Manhattan depends on constant repair.

Energy

Murphy declares state of emergency amid propane shortage, cold weather [New Jersey Globe]

The measure aims to ensure uninterrupted heating access and safeguard families during the cold weather.

Policy

NJBIA 67th Business Outlook Survey: Increased Energy Costs, Tariffs Further NJ’s Business Affordability Malaise [NJBIA]

"On a national level, tariffs, or the uncertainty around them, proved difficult for some. And on a statewide front, rampant energy cost increases also served as a strong and largely unexpected deterrent to profits."

Energy

New Jersey Bill Supports Advanced Nuclear Reactors

"The Senate Environment and Energy Committee passed legislation sponsored by Senator John Burzichelli today that would direct the Board of Public Utilities to study the feasibility of developing advanced reactors statewide."

Roads & Bridges

N.J. first state to unveil ‘ambitious’ statewide plan to reduce traffic deaths to zero [NJ.com]

N.J. first state to unveil ‘ambitious’ statewide plan to reduce traffic deaths to zero

Environment

Long Slip transformation turns flood risk into rail capacity at Hoboken Terminal

The Long Slip is transforming from a flood pathway into new rail capacity at Hoboken Terminal. The filled canal, elevated above the flood line, will support new tracks, ADA accessible platforms and improved rail operations at Hoboken Terminal.

Infrastructure Funding

The project America cannot afford to delay: Why the Hudson Tunnel stands as the most important infrastructure effort in the United States

The Northeast depends on a reliable rail link. The new Hudson Tunnel means resilience for the region’s economy and daily commutes.

Climate Resilience

The 5 Costliest Natural Disasters in New Jersey History

New Jersey has faced nature’s wrath time and again. These five storms alone caused more than $33 billion in damage, reshaping communities and infrastructure statewide.

Energy

PJM Says Winter Power Supply Adequate [ROI-NJ]

"'The grid is set up to keep the power flowing reliably this winter under forecast conditions, but the tightening of our margins will begin to impact us in the next few years if it continues,' said Aftab Khan, executive vice president – operations, planning and security."

Energy

PJM Files proposal with FERC to Update Capacity Auction Rules [ROI-NJ]

"The PJM joint proposal seeks to strike a reasonable balance between wholesale cost and the need to produce auction results that will attract investment in generation required for future grid reliability."

Energy

How the US cut climate-changing emissions while its economy more than doubled [The Conversation]

This article underscores that economic growth and emissions reduction can coexist with the right mix of technology, policy, and market forces.

Energy

International Energy Agency Says Renewable Energy Projects to Rise but World Will Keep Relying on Fossil Fuels, Especially Natural Gas [AP]

The world is on track to build more renewable energy projects in a five-year period than it has in the last 40 years, but natural gas will continue to be relied upon.

Economic Development