Since the construction of Portal North Bridge in 1910, it has become the busiest rail line in the entire Western Hemisphere. This swing-style rail bridge that spans the Hackensack River from Kearney to Secaucus, NJ has been working on her last legs. One out of seven times the bridge opens, it fails to close properly. Operational issues like this have been the culprit of major train delays and heavy boat traffic for years--sometimes causing trains to be backed up all the way to Boston. With over 450 trains passing over the bridge every day, NJ Transit decided to act and put an end to the commuting nightmares. 

As of Summer 2022, replacement of the aging Portal Bridge commenced. The Skanska/Traylor Bros PNB Joint Venture (STJV) was awarded the $1.56 billion contract to replace the Portal Bridge with a new two-track, high-level, fixed-span bridge--representing the single largest construction award in NJ Transit history. The new Portal North Bridge will allow river traffic to pass underneath without interrupting rail traffic. 

Fast forward to 2025, the construction of the Portal North Bridge has reached significant milestones. The third and final arch of the new bridge is now in place, marking a major step forward in this crucial infrastructure project. The new bridge, rising 50' (ft) above the Hackensack River, spans nearly 2.5 miles of the Northeast Corridor. It is expected to improve reliability, safety, and train speeds while eliminating conflicts with maritime traffic. NJ Transit anticipates trains will begin rolling over the new bridge by late 2026, with the old bridge scheduled for demolition the following year. 

STJV has continued to rely on cutting-edge technology and robust equipment to drive this project toward success. As a key partner, International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®) has supported the initiative with top-tier tools such as ICE® I-62 Diesel Impact Hammers and a range of Vibratory Driver/Extractors, including the ICE® 66C, ICE® 50B, and ICE® 22D. The construction team also employed durable hydraulic hoses, ensuring seamless and consistent equipment performance. With over 1,250 piles installed as part of the foundation, this endeavor demonstrates the critical role of reliable equipment in large-scale infrastructure.  

Together, STJV and ICE® are bringing to life a safer and more efficient future for New Jersey's rail system. Congratulations to the entire Skanska/Traylor Bros PNB JV team! 

Learn more about the ICE® I-62V2 and our variety of ICE® vibratory drivers and extractors.  

Media Contact-      
Pollyanna Cunningham, MA, MBA      
Vice President
ICE® - International Construction Equipment, Inc   
The Hose Company  
Office - 704-821-8200      
Email - marketing@iceusa.com  /info@hydraulichose.com