Transit Friendly Communities for NJ Matawan

The Aberdeen-Matawan Station - now largely a park and ride facility straddling the two municipalities - is poised for a major transformation. Following a major investment in a new station building constructed by NJ TRANSIT, both the communities of Aberdeen and Matawan are looking at the development potential of the underutilized land and parking lots which surround the station. As a major landowner in the area, NJ TRANSIT also has an interest in the future development of the Aberdeen-Matawan Station.

The main goal of this report is to help guide the development of the station area, whether it occurs separately or collectively by the municipalities. This report sets the stage for a more detailed planning process than was possible in this study and that will be necessary for any development to occur. At the same time, however, the report identifies ways, prior to major development occurring, that Matawan and Aberdeen can work together to improve pedestrian, bicycle, and transit access to the station as well as enhance the station environment as a focal point for both communities. Moreover, Matawan has a specific interest in better linking the station with its downtown revitalization efforts.

While there are many opportunities for development around the station, there are also many obstacles to be overcome. The competing demands and visions of separate municipalities present jurisdictional challenges. Roadway capacity limitations will need to be addressed by a detailed analysis to support extensive new development. Parking for new development, if not properly planned and implemented, could overwhelm the already car-dominated setting. Indeed, there has been no market analysis to date about the types of uses that are most feasible and appropriate for the station area. This, too, will have to be undertaken.

This report documents the findings and recommendations of the technical team supported through a grant from the Transit and Community and Systems Preservation Pilot Program (TCSP), with added funding by NJ TRANSIT and the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. It was prepared by RPA and PPS assisted by NJ TRANSIT, Downtown New Jersey, and the NJ Office of State Planning.

The report is divided into two main sections: the first describes issues and opportunities - many of which can be undertaken in the short term - to enhance station access and its environment. The second section focuses on new development, including suggested urban design guidelines.