As of 2007[update], NJT's estimate of the cost of creating a passenger line to West Trenton was $219 million.

The Philadelphia-Newark service, like many former Reading and CNJ lines, was eventually subsidized by SEPTA and New Jersey Transit.

In the early 1980s, SEPTA began cutting back its diesel-powered lines in preparation for the opening of the electric-only Center City Commuter Connection.

[4][5] This service ended on December 3, 1982, consequent to significant reductions in federal funding for mass transit enacted by the Reagan administration in the prior year.

A second track would also be installed between Pennington – Hopewell Road Bridge and the Belle Mead station for a distance of 10 miles.