NJ TRANSIT Offers 50% Discount on Travel Amid I-80 Repairs
NEWARK, NJ – In light of the ongoing emergency repair work on Interstate 80, NJ TRANSIT has implemented a 50% discount on roundtrip travel for those affected by the disruption. This initiative aims to offer an alternative means of transportation, easing congestion in an area severely impacted by construction activities. The fare discount will remain in effect for the duration of the repairs, providing a timely solution for commuters and travelers.
Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “While we work around-the-clock to repair the roadway, we are providing every possible travel alternative including on NJ TRANSIT trains.” His commitment is to remove vehicles from the congested roadways, ensuring residents have access to reliable transportation for work and school. The governor’s proactive stance highlights the significance of maintaining community mobility during critical repairs.
The urgency of the I-80 repairs is underscored by U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. He commented on the critical nature of the highway, noting its implications for local and regional traffic. “I-80 is a critical artery that impacts not just the local community but the entire region,” he remarked. To expedite the repair process, the USDOT has engaged national experts in geotechnical engineering to assist the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) in identifying the issues at hand, emphasizing collaborative efforts among various agencies and local leaders.
The feedback from local political representatives has also been positive, with Congressman Tom Kean Jr. recognizing the fare discounts as a much-needed relief. “The NJ TRANSIT fare discounts are a welcomed help as we work to address the crisis on I-80,” he said. Kean had previously advocated for travel alternatives during a visit to the area, illustrating the responsiveness of local leaders to the community’s needs during this challenging time.
Fran O’Connor, NJDOT Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Board Chair, expressed awareness of the considerable impact this situation has had on residents. He stated, “We recognize the major impact this situation has had on residents in the area. We are doing everything we can to encourage the use of the railroad to keep the region moving, while we work around-the-clock to complete the extensive repairs on this section of I-80 as quickly as we can.” This dedication reflects the agency’s commitment to maintaining transportation infrastructure while prioritizing community welfare.
Kris Kolluri, NJ TRANSIT President and CEO, also encouraged residents to take advantage of the offered discounts. “We are pleased to offer NJ TRANSIT rail service as an alternative, allowing commuters to avoid delays and reduce congestion by taking cars off the road,” he said. The objective is not only to provide a more relaxed travel experience but also to promote the use of public transit during the repair period.
Effective starting Monday, March 24th, the fare-free travel applies to customers departing from Hackettstown, Mount Olive, Netcong, Lake Hopatcong, and Mount Arlington stations. Passengers on these routes can board without purchasing a fare, creating an accessible transportation option to Newark Broad Street Station or Summit Station. For those continuing to Penn Station New York, they simply need to inform the train crew upon transferring to receive a complimentary ticket, making the transition seamless and user-friendly.
For the return journey, customers will only be required to purchase a one-way ticket back to any of the five originating stations, effectively granting a 50% discount on overall roundtrip travel expenses. This encouraging measure not only alleviates financial burdens but also promotes the use of NJ TRANSIT’s extensive rail service network.
Commuters can stay updated on schedules, fares, and any service changes by checking the NJ TRANSIT website or downloading the official mobile app.
About NJ TRANSIT
NJ TRANSIT is the largest statewide public transportation system in the nation, facilitating over 925,000 weekday trips across 263 bus routes, three light rail lines, and 12 commuter rail lines, as well as providing Access Link paratransit service. As the third-largest transit system in the United States, it operates 166 rail stations, 62 light rail stations, and boasts over 19,000 bus stops, connecting major locations across New Jersey, New York, and Philadelphia. NJ TRANSIT continues to be a crucial part of the region’s infrastructure, underscoring the critical role it plays in supporting daily transportation needs.