New Jersey Residents Prefer Gas Tax Revenue for Roads Only, Poll Finds
TRENTON, NJ—A recent poll by Farleigh Dickinson University revealed that a majority of New Jersey voters prefer that revenues from the gas tax and vehicle registration fees remain dedicated solely to road, bridge, and highway maintenance. According to the survey, 59% of respondents opposed the allocation of these funds to NJ Transit projects, with only 34% in support.
The poll also highlighted the ongoing debate about funding for NJ Transit. “Funding for NJ Transit has been a recurring issue in New Jersey,” stated Cassino, a researcher involved in the study. He noted that while ticket fees are insufficient for supporting the transit system, non-users are reluctant to contribute through gas tax revenues. The support for diverting funds to NJ Transit varies significantly among political groups, with 51% of Democrats in favor compared to a mere 16% of Republicans and 36% of independents.
Regionally, the urban core counties of Essex, Hudson, Mercer, Middlesex, and Union showed the highest support for funding NJ Transit through gas taxes at 44%. However, even in these counties, a majority of 51% opposed such funding. DeGesero, another commentator on the issue, remarked on the financial sources for NJ Transit, which include $440 million from NJ Turnpike toll revenues in the fiscal year. He emphasized the importance of not diverting further funds from essential road and bridge projects, noting that only a small fraction of New Jerseyans use NJ Transit regularly.
