Posted on August 23, 2023

Glassboro-Camden Line Project: Paving the Way for a Better Future with Public Transportation

According to the American Public Transportation Association, every segment of society benefits from public transportation. The Glassboro-Camden Line (GCL), a proposed 18-mile passenger rail line between Glassboro and Camden, will revolutionize public transportation in South Jersey. The GCL will bring a myriad of benefits to the local community, and beyond, with a strong emphasis on economic growth, environmental preservation, and creating a more connected society.

Economic Benefits

Recent studies have shown that investing in public transportation brings substantial economic returns. The GCL will build a stronger, more resilient economy while enhancing the quality of life in the communities it connects.

Every $1 invested in public transportation generates $4 in economic returns.
Every $1 billion invested in public transportation supports and creates more than 50,000 jobs.
Every $1 billion in federal highway and transit investment supports 13,000 jobs for one year.
Every $10 million in capital investment in public transportation yields $30 million in increased business sales.
Home values in areas located near high-frequency public transit performed 42% better than other areas.

Environmental Benefits

The GCL maximizes existing transportation assets while minimizing impacts to the environment. The GCL encourages a modal shift from auto to transit, which reduces traffic congestion and carbon emissions while also encouraging sustainable travel options. Key environmental benefits include:

1 GCL train will accommodate 300 passengers who otherwise might be driving alone.
Public transportation’s overall effects save the United States 4.2 billion gallons of gasoline annually.
1 in 4 households located near transit does not own a vehicle.
Communities that invest in public transit reduce the nation’s carbon emissions by 37 million metric tons annually.

Societal Benefits

The GCL offers reliable, convenient, and affordable passenger rail service that will connect people to opportunities throughout Camden and Gloucester counties. The GCL will create easy access to cultural, recreational, educational, economic, and medical resources on both sides of the Delaware River. Significant societal benefits include:

Offers mobility options to individuals without access to a vehicle.
GCL stations are located in existing communities with several walk-up stations.
Statistically, train-related accidents happen at a lesser rate and with much lower passenger fatality rates than car travel does.
Provides riders with convenient access to work, school, shopping, doctors, entertainment, and each other by removing barriers to access.
Read a book, prep for a meeting, study, or stare out the window and enjoy the ride; avoid the stresses of driving and regain your time.

For more information and updates on the GCL project, please visit www.glassborocamdenline.com/