Half-price train rides for i-80 commuters as nj transit offers major discount amid emergency repairs

Half-price train rides for I-80 commuters as NJ TRANSIT offers major discount amid emergency repairs

March 23, 2025

NEWARK, NJ — NJ TRANSIT is offering a 50% discount on roundtrip train fares from five Morris and Warren County stations starting Monday as emergency repair work continues on a heavily traveled section of Interstate 80.

Key Points

  • NJ TRANSIT is offering 50% off roundtrip fares from five stations affected by I-80 repair traffic
  • Passengers will ride outbound for free and pay only for the return trip, starting March 24
  • The offer comes amid ongoing emergency repairs and federal-state response efforts

The fare relief, announced Friday, will apply to trips originating from Hackettstown, Mount Olive, Netcong, Lake Hopatcong, and Mount Arlington stations. The discount is aimed at reducing roadway congestion and offering commuters an alternative travel option during the ongoing highway crisis.

“While we work around-the-clock to repair the roadway, we are providing every possible travel alternative including on NJ TRANSIT trains,” said Governor Phil Murphy.

The affected portion of I-80, a major commuter corridor, is undergoing extensive emergency repair work led by NJDOT, with support from federal transportation officials.

“I-80 is a critical artery that impacts not just the local community but the entire region,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “USDOT has brought in national experts in geotechnical engineering to help NJDOT identify the problem and safely reopen this road.”

Effective March 24, passengers boarding at the five eligible stations will not need to purchase a ticket when departing. Train crews will issue transfer tickets to customers continuing their trip via Newark Broad Street or Summit Station. For the return journey, riders will only need to buy a one-way fare, completing the 50% roundtrip discount.

“The NJ TRANSIT fare discounts are a welcomed help as we work to address the crisis on I-80,” said Congressman Tom Kean Jr., who previously called for commuter relief options.

The offer will remain in place for the duration of the repair period. NJ TRANSIT has directed customers to its website and mobile app for service updates and schedules.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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