Mercer Times

Governor Murphy has announced a fare holiday for NJ TRANSIT, offering free rides from August 26 to September 2, 2024. This initiative is aimed at thanking the loyal customers who rely on public transit daily. During this period, fares will be waived across all modes of transportation within the NJ TRANSIT network.

Monthly pass holders who have already purchased an August pass will benefit from a 25% discount on their September monthly pass. This discount can be accessed through the mobile app, Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs), or ticket windows.

The fare holiday serves as an expression of gratitude towards customers, especially during a time when service levels have not met expectations. Governor Murphy acknowledged the disruptions faced by commuters and emphasized efforts to improve services in collaboration with Amtrak.

“Understanding that our commuters have faced many disruptions this summer, we are providing a one week fare holiday for NJ TRANSIT riders,” said Governor Murphy. “As we work diligently with Amtrak to investigate and address the issues that have occurred this summer, especially on the Northeast Corridor, we hope this fare holiday offers our commuters some relief. We also encourage New Jerseyans to take advantage of this opportunity, and we continue to be thankful to the many New Jerseyans who depend on public transit.”

Recent service disruptions have been prevalent on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor (NEC). In response, NJ TRANSIT and Amtrak are implementing a joint plan initiated after Governor Murphy's meeting with leadership from both organizations in June 2024. The plan aims to enhance service along this crucial rail line.

NJ TRANSIT personnel have increased equipment inspections while Amtrak focuses on inspecting and repairing catenary systems, track signals, and substations along the NEC. These measures have resulted in fewer infrastructure-related incidents.

Long-term strategies include boosting resources for transformer testing in substations and exploring expanded work windows for repairs and upgrades. Additionally, NJ TRANSIT is collaborating with Amtrak to secure grants under the Fed-State Partnership Grant Program for capital renewal projects like replacing catenary systems and transmission lines.

Furthermore, NJ TRANSIT acknowledges performance issues with River LINE light rail services in recent weeks. A supplemental bus plan was implemented earlier this week as an interim solution to enhance reliability for weekday travelers. Efforts are underway to hold contracted operators accountable for necessary repairs and upgrades.