Princeton Station and the Historic Dinky Shuttle
Located in the heart of the Princeton University campus, Princeton Station serves as the northern terminus of the Princeton Branch. This unique rail link connects the university community to the broader regional network via Princeton Junction, where passengers can access NJ Transit's Northeast Corridor Line and peak-hour Amtrak services.
The shuttle service operating between these two points is affectionately known as the "Dinky" (or sometimes the "PJ&B" for "Princeton Junction and Back"). Spanning just 2.7 miles (4.3 km) on a single track, it holds the distinction of being the shortest scheduled commuter rail line in the United States.
Key Facts
- Line: Princeton Branch (NJ Transit).
- Shortest Line: The "Dinky" is the shortest scheduled commuter rail line in the U.S.
- Ownership: Owned by Princeton University and operated by NJ Transit.
- Current Architect: The 2014 station was designed by Rick Joy.
- Historic Roots: The original station opened in 1865.
- Daily Volume: Average weekday ridership in 2024 was 550 passengers.
Station Evolution and Architecture
The physical location of the station has shifted over the last century to accommodate the growth of the university and the town. The original 1865 station was situated in what is now Blair Courtyard. In 1918, a new station was constructed approximately 0.25 miles further south.
Designed by architect-engineer Alexander C. Shand, the 1918 station was a prime example of Collegiate Gothic architecture, featuring a stone station house, a stone freight house, and a canopy-covered platform. Due to its architectural and historical significance, it was listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
The Modern Transition
In 2006, Princeton University proposed relocating the station to make room for a new arts center. This plan was met with significant opposition from a group called "Save the Dinky," who feared the move would decrease ridership. After years of legal challenges and planning board reviews, the historic 1918 station closed permanently on August 23, 2013.
Following a period of temporary service, the current permanent station, designed by architect Rick Joy, opened on November 17, 2014. The new facility is located 460 feet (140 m) south of the original 1918 site and includes a Wawa store, maintaining a convenience presence that had existed since 1974.
The Dinky Transitway and Future Planning
Looking forward, the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and NJ Transit have explored the concept of a "Dinky Transitway." This proposed Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system would integrate the existing rail service with exclusive bus lanes and a greenway for pedestrians and cyclists.
While the rail service continues, the university has repurposed the historic 1918 structures. The old station house and expanded freight house were converted into restaurants, with the Dinky Bar & Kitchen opening in 2016. To preserve the building's heritage, the restaurants incorporated original ticket windows into the kitchen views and used the wooden arrival/departure boards as overhead menus.
Station Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Alexander Street, Princeton, NJ |
| Operator | NJ Transit |
| Platforms/Tracks | 1 Side Platform / 1 Track |
| Fare Zone | 19 |
| Accessibility | Yes (Accessible, Parking, and Cycle facilities available) |
| Connections | NJT Bus 605, Tiger Transit (Routes 4 & 5), Free-B Shuttle |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "Dinky"?
The Dinky is the nickname for the NJ Transit shuttle train that runs the 2.7-mile Princeton Branch between Princeton Station and Princeton Junction.
Why was the station moved in 2014?
The station was relocated 460 feet south to allow Princeton University to construct a new arts and transit complex in the surrounding area.
Is the 1918 station still standing?
Yes, although it no longer serves as a train station. The historic building was preserved and converted into commercial spaces, including the Dinky Bar & Kitchen.
How do I get from Princeton Station to other cities?
Passengers take the Dinky shuttle to Princeton Junction, where they can transfer to the NJ Transit Northeast Corridor Line or Amtrak trains.
Was there ever a service interruption on the line?
Yes, service was suspended from October 14, 2018, to May 11, 2019, for the installation and testing of positive train control, during which time shuttle buses provided transportation.