Montgomery needs train service

Robert B. Comizzoli of Montgomery
    The Montgomery Township Committee should develop a plan to support re-establishment of passenger service on the old Reading Line that links West Trenton through Hopewell, Montgomery, and Somerville with Bound Brook and ultimately Newark, Jersey City, and New York City. The right of way exists as a freight line, but would need upgrading for restoration of commuter service. In this time of economic trouble, federal funds should be available for this project.
   Montgomery ought to work with Hopewell, Somerville, other interested townships, and federal and state officials to obtain federal and state approval and financing for this project. Montgomery will need to identify a station site with road accessibility and space for parking. In addition, Montgomery should establish a plan for suitable housing and other development (office and retail) at the station site.
   Such a plan takes advantage of a coming trend already identified by New Jersey residential real estate experts. This trend consists of couples, in many cases childless (less pressure on school budgets), wanting to live very close to mass transit. Affordable housing could be included in the housing mix. Availability of efficient commuting from Montgomery would increase real estate values in the township and decrease fossil fuel use.
   I believe that restoration of rail transit and the allied development have many advantages for Montgomery Township and its citizens, and urge the consideration and adoption of this project by the Township Committee.
Robert B. Comizzoli
Montgomery