TRENTON, NJ – Mass transit services in New Jersey are running out of money. Mass transit, one of the cornerstones of Governor Murphy’s green energy agenda is about to get more expensive for those who use it.
NJ Transit will raise fares by 15% starting July 1, affecting both train and bus commuters, with officials approving the hike on Wednesday. This initial increase will be followed by a potential annual rise of 3% in the subsequent years.
Despite opposition from the public, who voiced their concerns both in person and via phone, the fare hike was confirmed within two hours. The decision was made as an alternative to reducing services, with officials acknowledging the need for additional funding from Governor Phil Murphy and the Legislature.
This fare adjustment comes in the face of a $120 million budget gap for the current year and a forecasted nearly $1 billion shortfall for 2025. State Senate Republican Leader, Sen. Anthony Bucco, criticized the Murphy administration for these financial challenges, labeling the fare increase as contrary to efforts to make New Jersey more affordable.