But reducing light rail service to provide a window for freight operations would lower already anemic projected ridership for the rail line, eliminating approximately 1,000 riders per day and severely compromising the attractiveness of the system. According to the Delaware Valley Association of Rail Passengers, NJ Transit could solve many of its problems by replacing light rail with traditional FRA-compliant commuter rail, which is compatible with freight trains at all times. Further, potential service would not be limited to points only between Camden and Trenton - direct service to New Brunswick, Newark, and NYC would be possible.

A 1996 NJ Transit study estimated the cost of deploying commuter rail on the line to be $212 million, much less than the current projected $452 million for the South Jersey light rail. It is not clear why NJ Transit has consistently refused to study commuter rail for this project; the only reason given to date has been a problem with the route alignment through the Camden Central Business District, which would require the flexibility of light rail vehicles. But according to recent news articles, Camden does not want the rail line running through its historic downtown. NJ Transit should not be so wedded to this alignment through Camden that the project becomes untenable.