New Jersey Transit was established in 1979 as a state-owned public transportation system, consolidating several previous transit operators. Rail operations began in 1983 when it acquired commuter rail operations from Conrail. Through the 1980s and 1990s, NJ Transit expanded and modernized its network, including major projects like the Secaucus Junction transfer station and direct service to New York Penn Station. Today, it operates one of the largest statewide public transit systems in the United States.