NJ Transit’s board of directors unanimously approved a 15% fare increase on Wednesday, effective July 1, despite last-minute protests and pleas from commuters. The increase will be implemented in addition to subsequent 3% increases on July 1 of each year.
Commuters expressed concerns about the impact on low-income riders, but the board members were unmoved.
The fare increase is part of NJ Transit’s 2025 budget, which aims to address revenue losses due to low pandemic-related ridership. The increase will raise one-way ticket costs by over $3, with some examples including:
* Bus ticket from Toms River to New York City: $21.25 to $24.40
* Train ticket from Princeton to New York City: $16 to $18.40
Light rail and river LINE modes of travel will also be impacted. The new rates can be viewed on the NJ Transit website.
This is the first fare increase since 2015 and comes after a $119 million budget deficit was identified last year. The end of COVID-19 relief funding in 2025 adds to the budgetary concerns.
The increase follows a 3% toll hike on the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway last month, which marked the third increase since 2020. Additionally, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority approved a once-daily toll of $15 for drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street in December.
The fare increase has sparked concerns about the affordability of public transportation in New Jersey, with some commuters expressing worries about the impact on their daily commutes.