Politics & Government
Council Candidate Sees Light at End of Tunnel for Westfield Commuters
Third Ward Republican Diane Barabas will challenge David Oliveira in the June primary. The winner of that election will face Democratic challenger Matthew Sontz in November.
Dear Editor:
There might be a light at the end of the tunnel for Westfield Commuters that travel on the Raritan Valley Line into New York, Penn Station. At a recent meeting with Martin Robins, Board Member of the Raritan Valley Coalition, he informed us that there was a plan to partner with NJ Transit and provide service by using some of the new dual-powered locomotives during peak Commuter times.
This would be a dream come true for the Commuters on the Raritan Valley Line, because as of this date there is no direct service into New York City. ONE SEAT RIDE is only available if you chose to leave from train stations on the Northeast Corridor or the Jersey Coast Line(NJ Transit). Which means, you have to leave town and park your car at this particular location.
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The Westfield Commuter has been at a disadvantage for many years now. Never knowing day to day if you miss the connection in Newark for one reason or another your whole day can be turned upside down. It almost happened when construction started for the new Transit Tunnel, but that dream when up in smoke when the State of New Jersey had to reconsider due to lack of funding.
It is extremely important that the residents and commuters realize how important this project is for our Community. ONE SEAT RIDE is more than just commuting, it grows the local economy and encourages our property values!
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If I am elected I will concentrate on making everyone’s wish come true by encouraging the support of our local Legislators and other elected officials to resolve this important transportation issue for the residents of Westfield.
Diane Barabas
Candidate, 3rd Ward Council
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