Bus company cancels deal with embattled new jersey transit

PARAMUS, NJ — Coach USA has declared that it will be discontinuing the O.N.E. Bus service routes 24, 31, and 44 in East Orange, Orange City, Newark, and Essex County, effective October 8, 2023. This decision comes after exhaustive efforts to sustain these routes proved unviable financially and operationally.

Dan Rodriguez, Vice President of Public Affairs at Coach USA, expressed the challenges faced in maintaining these routes, citing increased operational costs and lack of governmental support as primary reasons for the discontinuation. “Despite every effort to prevent this outcome, without government assistance, continuing these routes is not feasible,” said Rodriguez.

Newel Scoon, Vice President of the East for Coach USA, highlighted additional factors contributing to the decision, including a decline in ridership, driver shortages, and inflationary pressures. “The financial losses sustained from operating these routes, where revenue covered only about half of the costs, have made it untenable to continue,” Scoon explained.

While the discontinuation marks the end of an era for the O.N.E. Bus service, which has operated similarly to New Jersey Transit but without subsidies, Coach USA is committed to minimizing the impact on affected commuters. The company is actively working with state officials and other stakeholders to assist customers during this transition.

Notices have been issued to the company’s unions, New Jersey Transit, the Governor’s office, and local elected officials. Coach USA is also in the process of informing its customers about the upcoming changes. All other existing Coach USA services will continue to operate as usual.

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