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Boro receives $752,000 grant for new sidewalks The Ocean Star, 7/19/2024 NJTPA MENTION - A flurry of new sidewalks, courtesy of a $752,000 grant from Safe Routes to School (SRTS), are coming to the Ocean Road Elementary School area. Currently, there are several sidewalks already in the area, most immediately around the school, located at 1210 Benedict St. However, this project aims to connect these sidewalks that are incomplete or disjointed and install several long strips so roads are safer to travel.

Bergen Square Facelift Dedicated as Fulop Revives Hope for Pompidou x Jersey City Times, 7/24/2024 - A rare green space – or, least, quasi-green – in the heart of a heavily-trafficked, construction-dominated section of Jersey City was dedicated Monday. Mayor Steven Fulop presided over a ceremonial ribbon-cutting in the heart of Bergen Square, which he characterized as “one of the oldest established town squares in America, dating back to 1660.”

NJ Transit will spend $178M on new trains. Commuters say they need fixes now. NJ.com, 7/25/2024 - Wednesday was shopping day for NJ Transit — and the airing of grievances for rail commuters who also came armed with some solutions to make their rides better. Some long-term relief for riders will be coming down the track as the commuter agency’s board of directors approved spending $178 million to buy 36 new Multilevel III rail cars. They are intended to replace some of the agency’s problematic single-level cars, that are over 40-years-old, for use during rush hour transportation to Penn Station New York.

White House agrees to board to mediate labor dispute between New Jersey Transit and its engineers AP, 7/25/2024 - New Jersey Transit and a union representing its rail engineers will have more time try work out a labor dispute under an executive order President Joe Biden signed Wednesday. The White House said in a statement that the president authorized the creation of a Presidential Emergency Board aimed at helping the state's transit agency and Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen resolve disputes over a labor agreement.

NJ Transit orders 36 new EMU railcars from Alstom Trains.com, 7/25/2024 - The NJ Transit board of directors on Wednesday approved the purchase of 36 Multilevel III electric multiple-unit railcars from Alstom Transportation, increasing to 174 the number of the new railcars ordered since 2018.
 

NJ Transit train riders urge agency to 'do better.' Here's what the CEO, board had to say NorthJersey.com, 7/25/2024 - NJ Transit riders were in search of solutions at the agency's monthly board meeting about what is being done to improve their commutes – but didn’t get a whole lot of answers.

First contract for $10B new Manhattan bus terminal approved by Port Authority NorthJersey.com,  7/29/2024 - The Port Authority authorized the first construction contract for a new bus terminal in midtown Manhattan on Thursday. The authorization was for $271 million, with $187.7 million of that to pave over areas of Dyer Avenue, which will be a staging area for construction of new ramps, the new terminal and bus storage. The construction contract is expected to go to New York-based MLJ Contracting Corp.

New Jersey House Dems seek federal funds for Amtrak’s northeast corridor route New Jersey Monitor, 7/26/2024 - Eight members of New Jersey’s House delegation urged the U.S. Department of Transportation to deploy federal infrastructure funds to make urgent upgrades to tracks and overhead wires that have snarled trains in a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg Friday.

NJ Transit approves $3B budget amid outcry over fare hikes New Jersey Monitor, 7/25/2024 - Agency officials during a Wednesday board meeting predicted farebox revenue that has struggled to recover from a post-pandemic ridership loss would rise 22% to $947 million, due mostly to a 15% fare hike approved in April.

The Jerseyiest place in Paris is the biggest Olympic ring of them all NJ.com, 7/26/2024 - Jackie Dubrovich is a two-time Olympic fencer who grew up in Riverdale and now lives in Maplewood. She noticed the intense traffic around the Arc during a visit to the city for a tournament, and despite her fierce home-state pride, she concluded that Paris had her home state beat.

NJ Transit wants to consolidate stations on this rail line NJ.com, 7/29/2024 - NJ Transit officials plan to close the Kingsland rail station in downtown Lyndhurst and consolidate it with a new station to be built near the existing Lyndhurst Rail station.

Here's what Branchburg police are doing about residents' speeding complaints MyCentralJersey, 7/30/2024 - Despite the 25 mph speed limit, the chief said a study showed that traffic on Fairview Drive averaged 39 mph. Buck said, however, that "obviously" the speed limit should remain at 25 mph because of the number of driveways and the lack of sidewalks.

Two New Jersey Transportation Projects Win Awards transportationtodaynews.com, 7/30/2024 - The New Jersey Department of Transportation recently announced that two of its projects had been named regional winners in the 2024 America’s Transportation Awards Competition. The two projects – the Route 3, Route 46, Valley Road & Notch/Rifle Camp Road Interchanges and the I-76/I-676, Bridges and Pavement, Contract 1 – were chosen from a wide array of projects across the country.

Port Authority Airports Report Busiest First Half of Year Ever New Jersey Business Magazine, 7/30/2024 - The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey today announced that the agency’s commercial airports soared to new heights over the first half of 2024, recording their busiest January-June first half ever. The period was capped by the busiest June on record for the region’s commercial airports.

Where do propane powered trucks fit in the energy transition? Ask New Jersey freightwaves.com, 7/31/2024 - A Newark/Elizabeth container port is switching its fleet to propane for moving containers to trains; more will follow.

How to use your E-ZPass to pay for gas and parking in N.J., N.Y. and Pennsylvania NJ.com, 7/31/2024 - Drivers who park at the regions’ three major airports have done it since 2003 and soon millions of drivers in 19 states, including New Jersey, will be able to use their E-ZPass tag to pay for parking and to buy gas.  The expansion of the Driven by E-ZPass non-toll payment program across the 19-state E-ZPass Group network, including New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, was announced Tuesday by PayByCar, Inc., a mobile payment company that is making the service possible.

Backed by big companies and labor, Supply Chain Council debuts JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Against a backdrop of New York Harbor and cranes looming over the Port of Newark, the Supply Chain Council announced its formation Wednesday, boasting that it will fill a void among logistics-focused associations by casting a wider membership net.

Congestion pricing is on an indefinite pause. New Yorkers are suing to start it. NJ.com, 7/31/2024 (PAYWALL) - Will the fate of New York’s now-on-pause congestion pricing plan to charge $15 to enter lower Manhattan be decided by dueling lawsuits in New Jersey and New York?

Amtrak asks for $299M to fix Northeast Corridor problems that constantly delay commuters NJ.com, 8/1/2024 — Amtrak officials have applied for $299.7 million in federal grants to replace trouble-prone overhead wiring that powers trains, and has been blamed for delays and service suspensions this summer.

Riding the Loop: Camden's $2 On-Demand Transportation May Expand CAMDEN – The Loop, the city's heavily state-subsidized, ride-on-demand system that turned a year old this month, may expand to weekends and destinations well beyond Camden's borders.

Bayonne takes major step toward long-awaited ferry service with $4 million purchase

The Jersey Journal, 8/1/2024 (PAYWALL) — The years-in-the-making plans to establish ferry service in Bayonne took a huge step forward when the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey agreed to sell the city more than two acres of land on the Peninsula at Bayonne Harbor. The city will purchase 2.3 acres of land along Port Terminal Boulevard — a small portion of the 31 acres it sold to Port Authority in 2010 — for $4.04 million.

Wayne Traffic Light Optimization Coming For the Hamburg Tpk and Central Ave TAPinto Wayne, 8/3/2024, NJTPA MENTION — The County of Passaic is moving forward with a “Regional Traffic Signal Optimization Project” that will begin a year from now and, hopefully, will improve traffic flow and more at 71 signalized intersections in the county.

Prospect Park's main road could undergo a transformation NorthJersey.com, 8/5/2024, NJTPA MENTION — Officials are getting free assistance from a group of planning experts to try to make North Eighth Street a hot spot for business and culture. Urban designers call it place-making. 
 

NYC’s Penn Station can’t use sought-after European travel model, experts say NJ.com, 8/6/2024 (PAYWALL) — The future of one idea to improve New York Penn Station’s hellish rush hour overcrowding will have to wait until the future, said experts at a forum held at NYU Monday. The concept, called “through running,” has been proposed by two advocacy groups. But it got a thumbs down for the present time, said a consultant who studied the idea for Amtrak and the Long Island RailRoad, and NJ TRANSIT.

The GWB is open 24/7. Just not to walkers or cyclists. One rider pushes to change that NorthJersey.com, 8/6/2024 — The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is open to discussing changes to the hours of use, but not until after the south portion of the shared-use path is completed, which is estimated to be in 2026. A full bridge restoration is expected to be completed in 2030.

25th Street Pedestrian Bridge Update: Opening Soon? TAP into Bayonne, 8/6/2024 — Although the body of the new 25th Street pedestrian bridge has been installed, ramps and other elements are still not yet in place. “We hope to have the bridge open by the end of the year,” said Tom Cotter, Superintendent of the Bayonne Department of Public Works.
 

NJ tourists, spending surpass pre-pandemic levels NJBIZ.com, 5/17/2024 — After continued rebounds in visitor volume and spending in 2023, New Jersey officials say the state’s tourism industry has finally surpassed pre-pandemic levels. And, they expect continued growth this year.
 

MVC changes disclosure on credit card surcharge that affects 4.5M drivers a year in N.J. NJ.com, 5/17/2024 — On the scale of practices that bother consumers, credit card surcharges fall somewhere between mildly annoying and utterly offensive. And they’re legal, as long as businesses stay within the parameters of the law. But one driver’s recent experience renewing two car registrations online with the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) is making the experience better for all consumers.

NJ Transit Board Greenlights Groundbreaking Hoboken Connect Project Hudson Reporter, 5/18/2024 — NJ Transit's board of directors has approved the ground lease for the Hoboken Connect project.

Harvey Cedars to Host Kick-Off for Pedestrian Safety Campaign Shore News Network, 5/17/2024 — On Thursday at 10 a.m., Harvey Cedars will launch a public safety campaign to reduce pedestrian accidents. The news conference marks the beginning of the Street Smart NJ initiative on Long Beach Island.

U.S. Coast Guard will likely OK controversial NJ Turnpike Extension bridge NJ.com, 5/18/2024 (PAYWALL) — The controversial $6.2 billion plan to replace the Newark Bay Bridge with two wider spans between Newark and Bayonne is poised to have the U.S. Coast Guard okay it after a public comment period.

New Jersey Click It or Ticket campaign: Buckle up or get fined Asbury Park Press, 5/20/2024 — Headed out this holiday weekend? Buckle up. The National Click it or Ticket campaign runs through June 2 and if you're riding in a car, you need to be strapped in.

Perth Amboy intersection gets new $627K traffic safety measures MyCentralJersey, 5/21/2024 — One of Perth Amboy's busiest intersections has been improved to increase pedestrian safety. The improvements at Smith and Goodwin streets include replacing the traffic light system to include pedestrian signals, Americans With Disabilities Act curb ramps, sidewalks and newly painted crosswalks.

Cash tolls ending on Route 202 Lambertville-New Hope bridge MyCentralJersey.com, 5/21/2024 — June 16 will be the last day that toll collectors will be available to handle cash transactions at the bridge as well as two other low traffic bridges over the Delaware River linking Columbia and Portland, Pa. and Montague and Milford, Pa. Starting June 17, drivers can only pay via E-ZPass or TOLL BY PLATE. Tolls are charged only for traffic crossing into Pennsylvania.

Opponents of N.J. Turnpike widening projects win a victory from the Coast Guard NJ.com, 5/21/2024 (PAYWALL) -— Opponents who were outraged after learning two weeks were left in a 30-day comment period about the $6.2 billion project to replace the Newark Bay New Jersey Turnpike extension won an extension to voice their concerns into July.

Curbs in Hoboken Get Ready to Be ‘Reimagined’ Government Technology, 5/22/2024 — The city will work with a technology company and an urban design firm to digitize its streetscape, part of a project known as The Curb Reimagined, which will create a real-time, digital city map.

How to move tons of dirt from Gateway rail tunnel? A town pushes rail over trucks NorthJersey.com, 5/23/2024 — At the crux of the back-and-forth is whether to use freight rail to reduce the number of trucks needed to haul spoils — the muck removed during construction of the new tunnel — and to bring in rebar, precast concrete segments, Portland cement and other materials to the site.

NJ Transit is on the hook for $88M to help rehab 2 East River tunnels. This is why. NJ.com, 5/12/2024 (PAYWALL) — NJ Transit’s board of directors approved an agreement on May 8 to fund $88.4 million of the work on the two of the East River Tunnels. NJ Transit uses them to travel between New York Penn Station and Sunnyside Yard in Queens where they are stored between the morning and evening commuting rush.

Improvements planned for busy Bergen County intersection ahead of 2026 World Cup games NorthJersey.com, 5/13/2024 — The scope of the intersection improvement project includes the installation of a semi-actuated traffic light equipped with vehicle detection technology, the widening of Hackensack Street to accommodate a designated right turn lane from Union Avenue, and the relocation of the Winters Place bus stop to just north of Union Avenue with a designated cut-out to help alleviate traffic backup.

Commuters will see 3 huge arches for the new Portal Bridge floating up the river this winter NJ.com, 5/13/2024 (PAYWALL) — If the news wasn’t enough that the 2$ billion Portal Bridge North project to replace the cranky 114-year-old bridge that carries the busy Northeast Corridor rail line over the Hackensack River in Kearny is 50 percent finished, commuters will see a real show this winter, officials said.

‘Mega’ electric truck charging depot arriving near Port Newark NJ BIZ, 5/22/2024 — The project aims to support a shift to electric Class 8 trucks that will enable the region’s freight logistics and drayage truck companies to more conveniently move toward clean, quiet, zero-emissions operations.

Jersey Shore drawbridge won’t be open in time for Memorial Day weekend NJ.com, 5/23/24 — A Jersey Shore drawbridge that’s been left in the open position since early March is expected to be back in service by May 31, state Department of Transportation officials said. The Route 71 drawbridge over the Shark River between Avon and Belmar in Monmouth County has been stuck in the open position since a mechanical failure resulted in “significant damage” to the machinery that raises and lowers North Bridge span.

Drive on One of the Most Scenic Roads in the US Right Here in NJ WOBM.com, 5/23/2024 — In Ocean County, we have some very scenic roads along our waterfront and through our pines. There is always a different type of "scenic" drive here in New Jersey. Whether it's along the Atlantic Ocean, Pine Barrens, Northwest Mountains, or Farm Country, there are all kinds of different scenes here in New Jersey.

Electric bicycles in New Jersey may need to be registered, insured soon. Here's how cyclists are responding CBS News NY, 5/23/2024 — A bill proposed this year would require low-speed electric bicycles and scooters to be registered and insured. There are safety concerns about them, but critics say added regulations could push more vehicles onto already congested roads.

Murphy sends scathing letter to Amtrak after nightmare rush hour commute NJ.com, 5/24/2024 — The Wednesday evening commuting nightmare on Amtrak and NJ Transit trains running on the busy Northeast Corridor was blamed on one wire, Amtrak officials said Thursday. The downed wire resulted in service being suspended and left passengers stranded at Penn Station New York.

Here's one area NJ Transit is ahead of schedule: switching to electric vehicles NorthJersey.com, 5/24/2024 — NJ Transit is ahead of schedule on fulfilling a state mandate to convert its light-duty, non-revenue service vehicles to zero-emission models. To date, the agency has converted 100 of its 323-vehicle fleet of cars, SUVs, vans and small trucks to plug-in electric hybrid (PHEV) or battery-electric vehicles (EV). Of those 100, 81 are PHEVs and 19 are EVs, the latter including 12 Toyota BZ4X, six Chevy Bolts and one Ford Transit Cargo.

Why Amtrak Is to Blame for a Hellish Night for New Jersey Commuters The New York Times, 5/24/2024 —  Sharing tracks means that any disruption along the 427-mile Northeast Corridor, which links Boston to Washington, D.C., can be felt by thousands of passengers.

Opinion: Restricted parking reduces NJ Transit ridership and causes financial problems. Here's why NorthJersey.com, 5/28/2024 —  I read your article about NJ Transit’s huge financial problems and the hiring consultants to study how to create a “comprehensive transit system." As a New Jersey licensed urban planner who studied transportation (and former HUD Assistant Secretary), the underlying problems are obvious to me.

Fight over N.J. Turnpike widening project continues Tuesday with rally, forum NJ.com, 5/28/2024 (PAYWALL) —  The second public forum about a controversial New Jersey Turnpike widening project will be held in Bayonne on Tuesday evening.

Mind the gap! The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway still has a few detours left NorthJersey.com, 7/7/2024 — The ultimate goal of the Hudson River Waterfront Conservancy, founded in 1984, is to have an unobstructed 15-plus mile promenade for walkers, bikers, joggers and scooter-riders to enjoy, without ever having to leave sight of the river and that amazing skyline. The problem is that the Walkway wanders through eight municipalities: Fort Lee, Edgewater, North Bergen, Guttenberg, West New York, Weehawken, Hoboken and Jersey City (a ninth, Bayonne, will eventually be added to the mix).

Hurricane evacuation drill to be held on 6 major N.J. highways Thursday NJ.com 7/18/2024 — Drivers on six New Jersey highways will see an increased police presence on Thursday as officials conduct an emergency evacuation drill that would be implemented if a major hurricane hit the state.

Berkeley Heights Council Announces Grant Awards for Sidewalks, Field Improvements TAPinto Berkeley Heights, 7/18/2024 NJTPA MENTION - The New Jersey Department of Transportation announced last week that Berkeley Heights received the $1,270,000 from the Safe Streets to School Program for the “Safer Streets, Happy Feet: Berkeley Heights Mountain Ave Sidewalk Project.”

Historic station gets $83M accessibility grant NJ Spotlight News, 5/29/2024 —  Kevin Corbett, CEO of NJ Transit, joined lawmakers and members of the Federal Transit Administration to announce $83 million in new funding to renovate the historic Brick Church Station in East Orange with fully accessible measures like elevators and high-level platforms.

Building warehouses comes with the promise of jobs The Philadelphia Inquirer, 5/28/2024, NJTPA MENTION  —  As the warehousing industry in Philadelphia expanded and development boomed, so, too, did warehouse employment. The most plentiful jobs, at the entry level, are often physically demanding.

Brick, Clifton among school districts to win federal aid New Jersey Monitor, 5/29/2024 - As part of its ongoing effort to replace diesel-fueled school buses, the Biden administration on Wednesday said it will provide approximately 530 school districts across nearly all states with almost $1 billion to help them purchase clean school buses, including 11 in New Jersey that will share in $12.4 million.

$6.2B project to widen the Turnpike won’t eat up nearby homes, officials promise opponents NJ.com, 5/29/2024 (PAYWALL) - New Jersey Turnpike officials made their case Tuesday night for building a new $6.2 billion Newark Bay Bridge and approach structures between Newark and Bayonne, and pushed back against some of the arguments made by opponents of the project.

Dover will open new Morris Canal trail on Saturday. Take a hike into history Daily Record, 6/14/2024 - The NJTPA, in partnership with the Canal Society and the Morris Canal Working Group have presented a plan for a continuous trail that closely follows the historic canal route. The greenway would begin in Phillipsburg, end in Jersey City and in between run through Morris, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties.

Murphy's corporate transit fee proposal to pay for NJ Transit may be getting complicated NorthJersey.com, 6/14/2024 -During his budget address in February, Gov. Phil Murphy proposed a new corporate transit fee to serve as a “dedicated funding stream for NJ Transit” but now, just weeks away from the budget deadline, the fate of the fee and what it will fund is less clear.

New Proposal to Spur Transit-Oriented Development and Bolster NJ TRANSIT NJ Business Magazine, 6/14/2024 - The Murphy Administration unveiled a legislative proposal that would direct the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) to purchase up to $100 million in property from NJ TRANSIT to help expand commuter hubs across the state and meet a variety of critical needs.

Coach USA vows to keep its commuter buses rolling, despite bankruptcy filing NJ.com, 6/15/2024 (PAYWALL) - Coach USA, which operates the low-cost interstate MegaBus service and commuter buses in New Jersey, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection but officials assured riders it’s business as usual for the Paramus based company.

When will Route 15 reopen? New state website tracks repairs, detours NorthJersey.com, 6/15/2024 - Travelers and residents dealing with the headaches of the Route 15 South shutdown can now get updates on the emergency repairs and local traffic changes

Transit property pitch kicks off budget’s final weeks NJSpotlight.com, 6/17/2024 - A last-minute budget proposal from Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration calls for spending $100 million to create mixed-use, transit-oriented developments on properties currently owned by New Jersey Transit.

Easy-to-fake temporary paper tags from car dealerships are out, MVC says NJ.com, 7/1/2024 (PAYWALL)- The infamous New Jersey “ghost tag” is heading to the graveyard. New Jersey’s temporary paper tags, typically issued by auto dealers when a new or used vehicle is sold, that were easy to counterfeit as “ghost tags,” will be replaced by a tougher-to-fake version under a new state law that’s beginning to be implemented.

NJ Transit riders face 15% fare increase today, 1st hike in nearly a decade CBS News, 7/1/2024 - Starting Monday, NJ Transit customers will experience a 15% fare hike. It comes in the wake of customers complaining for the past month about service delays, long lines, cancellations, and infrastructure problems.

A federal grant for new rail tunnels linking N.J. and N.Y.C. is approved, but construction will last years NJ.com, 7/2/2024 (PAYWALL) - It’s official. Paperwork was approved Tuesday for a historic $6.8 billion federal grant to build the new Gateway rail tunnels under the Hudson River.

Here’s how many N.J. traffic deaths have happened so far in 2024 NJ.com, 7/2/2024 (Paywall) - Traffic deaths have increased during the first half of 2024 in New Jersey, bucking a national trend and concerning safety experts. A total of 314 people died on the roads this year, more than the 266 who were killed during the same time period in 2023, an increase of 18%.

Temporary bridge to ease Route 15 traffic mess is opening later this month NJ.com, 7/3/2024 (PAYWALL) - State Department of Transportation officials plan to have a temporary bridge opened by mid-July after the loss of all Route 15 south lanes over a 124-year old bridge that was being replaced. The emergency lane closures last month detoured tens of thousands of cars onto local Jefferson Township streets.

New Jersey’s $56.6 Billion Budget for FY 2025: Tax Hikes, Property Tax Relief, and Investments CentralJersey.com, 7/4/2024 - Governor Phil Murphy signed the new $56.6 billion state budget for New Jersey, which includes a significant tax increase on large corporations and substantial funding for property tax relief, public schools, pensions, and community projects.

We tried out NJ TRANSIT’s new fare payment system, and here’s what we found NJ.com, 7/8/2024 — NJ TRANSIT fares increased by 15 percent on Monday, but a new fare payment system using ticket validators on buses went into service this spring.

Fixes coming for Northeast Corridor wires that caused brutal commuter delays, Congressman says NJ.com, 7/8/2024 (PAYWALL) — Amtrak president CEO Stephen Gardner offered possible short- and long-term solutions to the recent delays and suspensions of NJ Transit rail service on the Northeast Corridor that recently inconvenienced and enraged tens of thousands of passengers, U.S. Rep Frank Pallone, D-6th Dist., said early last week.

Biggest federal grant in U.S. history signed for Gateway rail tunnel NJ.com, 7/8/2024 (PAYWALL) — A history making $6.8 billion federal grant completing $11 billion in federal funding to build the $16 billion Gateway rail tunnel between New Jersey and New York was officially secured at a Monday morning ceremony in Manhattan, yards from where the first tunnel machine will start gnawing its way under the Hudson River.

Hudson Tunnel Project secures historic $6.88B federal funding grant NJBIZ.com, 7/8/2024 — “History will remember those who led the effort to get us to a point of no return,” Gateway Development Comission CEO Kris Kolluri said during a Monday ceremony in New York to mark securing $6.88 billion in historic federal funding for the Hudson Tunnel Project.

More people are dying in N.J. crashes. How one county is trying to stop the surge. NJ.com, 7/9/2024 — It’s an alarming trend — fatal crashes are going up, and more people are dying while on the road. Fixing it, law enforcement officials in one New Jersey county say, starts with drivers.

Does NJ TRANSIT have electric buses? This $100M grant is a step NorthJersey.com, 7/10/2024 — NJ TRANSIT was awarded a $99.5 million federal grant to build a bus-charging station with solar canopies at its Meadowlands Bus Garage.This was the largest grant of the 117 awarded by the Federal Transit Administration this year through one of its competitive grant programs offered through the 2021 Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act. NJ Transit will pay for the 20 percent local match required for the grant using toll credits.

Pedestrian safety projects coming to several Central Jersey towns. Here's where MyCentralJersey.com, 7/11/2024 NJTPA MENTION — Four Central Jersey municipalities have received grants to improve pedestrian safety under the state's Safe Routes to School program: High Bridge, $530,000 . Bridgewater, $768,000. Berkeley Heights $1.2 million. New Providence, $534,000. In total, the state awarded $21.1 million for 23 projects throughout the state.

Coach is dropping 20 NJ Transit bus routes in North Jersey NorthJersey.com, 7/11/2024 — Coach USA informed NJ TRANSIT it is preparing to prematurely terminate contracts it has with the agency for 20 bus routes in Bergen, Hudson and Passaic counties. Coach sought to preserve as many of its bus services and jobs as possible by reaching asset purchase agreements with companies, including The Renco Group, Inc., which agreed to buy Rockland Coaches and Suburban Transit. Suburban operates 14 NJ TRANSIT routes in Middlesex County and one in Union.

NY/NJ Port Authority authorizes expanded cargo operations at Howland Hook Marine Terminal Transportation Today, 5/29/2024 - On Thursday, the Board of Commissioners of The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey authorized the Port Authority to take full ownership of the Howland Hook Marine Terminal on Staten Island.

Zeem to bring electric truck depot to Port Newark, NJ Fleet Equipment Magazine, 5/29/2024 - Zeem Solutions announced a large-scale electric truck depot development near Port Newark, New Jersey. Phase I of its construction operations are planned for Q4 of 2025. Zeem says the site will serve regional fleet operators with electric trucks, overnight parking and charging for 200 trucks, and additional charging for up to 300 electric trucks during the day.

Program Asks Summer Visitors to Be ‘Street Smart’ TheSandPaper.net, 5/29/2024 - With millions of people expected to visit the Jersey Shore this summer, police departments across Long Beach Island are participating in Street Smart NJ to raise awareness about pedestrian safety.

New supersized container ships will soon be able to use this N.J. port NJ.com, 5/29/2024 - As cargo ships get bigger to accommodate goods that will eventually be delivered to consumer’s doorsteps, $51 million is being plowed into projects by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to make the Port of New York and New Jersey ready for next generation of big vessels.

N.J. drawbridge that was stuck open is repaired. Here’s when it’ll be back in service. NJ.com, 5/30/2024 (PAYWALL) - Despite the bad weather that put an early end to Memorial Day beach trips and sparked an early exodus from the Jersey Shore Monday, state Department of Transportation bridge crews kept working. The diligent crews working on the Route 71 drawbridge between Belmar and Avon-by-the-Sea over the holiday weekend completed repairs, meaning the elderly span moves to testing, which will determine when it goes back in service.

The Clock is Ticking for Access Link TheMontclarion.org, 5/30/2024 - It is cold, rainy and the bus is nowhere to be found. Minutes turn to hours, the schedule says one thing and your phone another. This is an all too common reality for people who ride Access Link. Access Link, NJ Transit’s paratransit service, was designed for those who are unable to use traditional public transportation. Access Link is supposed to offer convenient transportation that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regardless of the person’s disability.

Precious cargo: How safe is your kid’s school bus? N.J. inspection reports revealed. NJ.com, 5/30/2024 (PAYWALL) - Bus #151 had collected 28 Edison students bound for John Adams Middle School by the time the driver realized they were in danger. As she approached a stop sign to turn, Bienvenid Almonte later wrote in her report, “the bus accelerated and lost all brakes.” In a split-second, she veered off of Rahway Road and onto a vacant lot, hoping to lose as much momentum as she could before the bus careened into the side of a house.

 

The Bayonne Bridge was raised to let bigger ships pass. Now comes more dredging NorthJersey.com, 5/30/2024 - Preparing for a future of bigger ships and more cargo was the focus of three announcements Wednesday —including a project to dredge the Kill Van Kull five feet deeper beneath the Bayonne Bridge — at the ports of New York and New Jersey.

Rick Cotton, executive director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, said the investments — made possible through a partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers — are critical to keeping the New York-New Jersey ports among the most competitive in the world. The ports consistently rank as the busiest on the U.S. East Coast and No. 2 in the country.

Truckers suing to block New York's congestion fee for Manhattan drivers Newsday.com, 5/31/2024 - The Trucking Association of New York filed a federal lawsuit Thursday against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which developed the toll scheme, arguing the higher fees unfairly and unconstitutionally target the trucking industry. The trucking association’s lawsuit is among at least eight seeking to block the congestion fee plan, which is slated to launch June 30.

New Jersey Senate approves bill to improve pothole repair Landline.com, 5/31/2024 - Potholes are again getting attention at the New Jersey statehouse. Potholes are enough of an issue in the state to warrant an online pothole damage claim form. The Senate voted unanimously to advance a bill that is intended to address concerns about pothole damage to roads and bridges throughout the Garden State.
 

TWU Ratifies Three-Year Contract With NJ Transit Railway Age, 6/3/2024 - The new contract, which will go into effect on July 1, the day after the current agreement expires, was ratified with 80% of votes in favor for the unit representing 180 car inspectors, car mechanics and coach cleaners. 

Massive Hoboken Connect project to transform historic terminal is underway. It only took 20 years. NJ.com, 6/3/2024 - Everything that anyone needs to get in and out of Hoboken sits at the southeastern corner of the city at the ever-churning, historic terminal that is kind of falling apart.

80 NJ Transit train stations aren't accessible to the disabled. Money is on the way NorthJersey.com, 5/28/2024 - City residents and their local representatives have been fighting since at least 2018 to get accessibility improvements and repair work done at the two NJ Transit stations that serve the city of about 70,000.

2 key departures at agency overseeing the Gateway rail tunnel project NorthJersey.com, 6/3/2024 - Two of the Gateway Development Commission's founding officials are leaving the three-year-old bistate agency overseeing the $16 billion program to build a new two-track rail tunnel and repair an old one beneath the Hudson River.

Used car buyers in N.J. will soon have to make one less trip to the DMV NJ.com, 6/3/2024 - When drivers make that wonderful final payment on a car loan, that milestone is celebrated when they get the title in the mail. But it’s not always a seamless process and a glitch can mean problems and multiple visits to a New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission center to straighten it out.

These 3 N.J. bridges are switching to cashless toll collecting NJ.com, 6/4/2024 (PAYWALL) - Drivers using three Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission bridges will say goodbye forever to the process of handing toll collectors paper money and coins in two weeks.

Congestion pricing in New York City facing postponement just weeks from launch NJ.com, 6/5/2024 (PAYWALL) - New York Gov. Kathy Hochul could delay the start of New York City’s congestion pricing plan to charge $15 to enter Lower Manhattan, according to published reports, but the plan still lacks the final federal approval needed to begin.

Major delays, detours due to Route 15 bridge indefinite closure in N.J. NJ.com, 6/5/2024 (PAYWALL) - Part of a Route 15 bridge that spans the Rockaway River in Morris County will be closed indefinitely for repairs after it was deemed unsafe for motorists, officials said Tuesday.

Two Kearny roadways to be closed one year for NJDOT project

NJ.com, 6/7/2024 (PAYWALL) - A couple roadways in the industrial section of Kearny will be closed for the next 12 months, state Department of Transportation officials said Thursday

New Jersey’s Leaders Celebrate Shelving of Congestion Pricing NYtimes.com, 6/7/2024 - Gov. Kathy Hochul’s surprising decision on Wednesday not to start tolling drivers entering Manhattan this month set off an immediate celebration among political leaders in New Jersey. But transit advocates warned that the indefinite delay of congestion pricing was no victory for the state’s beleaguered commuters.

NYC congestion pricing is on hold. How did that happen? What's next? What about NJ suit? msn.com, 6/7/2024 - The last 24 hours have been a blur for followers of the congestion pricing program for drivers entering Manhattan, which was “indefinitely paused” by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday. Her announcement came just weeks before the planned June 30 start date, when automobiles entering Manhattan below 60th Street would face toll rates ranging from $3.75 to $15 depending on the time of day.

Here’s how N.J. bridges are protected from the kind of ship that brought down a famous Baltimore bridge NJ.com, 6/10/2024 (PAYWALL) - Container ships continue to grow in size, so much that harbor channels are being deepened again and decks on spans like the Bayonne Bridge have been raised to accommodate them.

DOT promises temporary Route 15 bridge by mid-July as North Jersey town reels from traffic NJ.com, 6/9/2024 - State Department of Transportation officials will install a temporary bridge on Route 15 south over the Rockaway River after the loss of all southbound lanes on a 124-year old bridge that was being replaced, detouring tens of thousands of cars onto local Jefferson Township streets for the past four days.

Gas could dip below $3 this summer. But — sorry! — not in NJ. Here's why NorthJersey.com, 6/6/2024 - Motorists in some parts of the country are already enjoying gas below $3 a gallon, but New Jerseyans should not get their hopes up, analysts are warning. 

Hudson Tunnel Project unlocks $25M in grant funding NJBIZ.com, 6/10/2024 - Officials last week signed a $25 million grant agreement to fund a key early component of the Hudson Tunnel Project and broader Gateway Program The funding comes via the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity Raise (RAISE) grant program. The June 2023 award covers the Tonnelle Avenue Bridge and Utility Relocation Project. That work is already underway in North Bergen.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will impact the NJ economy. But will it benefit from it? NorthJersey.com, 6/12/2024 - Almost two years to the day before the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to kick off, the Assembly Tourism Committee met Monday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford to hear testimony about how New Jersey stands to benefit from the tournament.

NJ Transit, Amtrak meet to avoid summer of commuting hell NJ.com, 6/11/2024 (PAYWALL) - Veteran commuters recall the 2010s had several summers of commuting "hell" prompted by failing old infrastructure on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor line, and the agency doing critical repair work to fix it.

History-making $6.8B federal grant for Gateway tunnel is approved, lawmaker says NJ.com, 6/12/2024 (PAYWALL) - The largest federal transit grant in history, $6.8 billion to build the $16 billion Gateway Tunnel project between New Jersey and New York, has been approved by a federal agency, officials said.

NJ Transit Board awards contracts for Brick Church station modernization, Brielle Drawbridge replacement Mass Transit Magazine, 6/12/2024 - The New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) Board of Directors have approved contracts for the modernization of NJ Transit’s historic Brick Church station and for the replacement of the Brielle Drawbridge. 

NYC congestion pricing advocates plan lawsuit to keep Hochul from halting toll NorthJersey.com, 6/12/2024 - If congestion pricing wasn’t already synonymous with litigation, it is now. Another deluge of lawsuits could be coming in the next few weeks, this time from the advocates of congestion pricing who have formed a new coalition, led by New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, in the aftermath of New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s abrupt decision last week to pause the Manhattan tolling program she loudly supported until recently.

After widow’s request, work begins to install suicide prevention fence on Bayonne Bridge NJ.com, 6/13/2024 (PAYWALL) - Workers will begin installing suicide prevention fencing Thursday morning on the western, vehicle-only side of the Bayonne Bridge after the Port Authority agreed to take the step in response to community requests.

Low Seawalls On Hoboken Streets Will Be Topic Of Public DEP Meeting Tuesday Patch.com, 6/13/2024 - Construction is set to start later this month on "resist structures," which would act as low walls on city streets to resist flooding. Residents can find out more about the plans at a meeting Tuesday involving the City of Hoboken and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Coach USA files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy NJBIZ, 6/12/2024 -  Coach USA said it has initiated court-supervised sales for its businesses, adding the move aims to “preserve jobs, ensure continued service and maximize the value of our businesses.” The company has 2,700 employees throughout the U.S. and Canada. The company "is operating as normal and remains focused on operating safely and serving customers."

Carteret awards contracts for in-water & uplands construction of ferry terminal ROI-NJ, 6/13/2024 - Howell-based George Harms Construction Co. was awarded nearly $7.95 million for in-water construction work, while Old Bridge-based Black Rock Enterprises was awarded more than $6.4 million for uplands construction. Construction is expected to begin in July and be completed by spring 2025.

A new emphasis on electrifying NJ’s school bus fleet NJ Spotlight News, 6/13/2024 - A bill (A-1677) advanced out of the Assembly Education Committee last week would extend terms for lease and purchase contracts for electric school buses to last the service life of the bus. The New Jersey School Boards Association would also help local districts obtain electric school buses by working as a government aggregator.

Local activists, mayors urge passage of new business tax to fund NJ Transit New Jersey Monitor, 6/13/2024 - Activists said they would prefer to bring back the business tax surcharge that expired last year, which affected 3,000 businesses (the proposed transit tax will only hit 300 businesses). They also stressed that NJ Transit faces a budget gap next year that exceeds $700 million.

State pitches $100M plan to develop NJ Transit properties New Jersey Monitor, 6/14/2024 - Under the proposal, whose details are still being negotiated, the state Economic Development Authority would be required to remit a portion of its proceeds back to NJ Transit if the sale or lease of a transit property exceeds the authority’s purchasing costs.

Troublesome Jersey Shore bridge could be closed for weeks for emergency repairs NJ.com, 6/15/2024 - An oft-shuttered bridge that connects two Jersey Shore towns in Monmouth County could be closed for several weeks for repair work, county officials announced Friday.

Feds want a decision in N.J. lawsuit to block $15 congestion pricing fee to enter Lower Manhattan NJ.com, 6/17/2024 (PAYWALL) - With the June 30 start of New York’s congestion pricing plan on hold, federal officials told a judge that a ruling is still needed in New Jersey’s lawsuit to block the proposal to charge $15 to drive into lower Manhattan.

Fairview Traffic Light Hearing June 25 MyVeronaNJ.com, 6/17/2024 NJTPA MENTION - In November 2020 Essex County said that it was getting $26.4 million in federal grants from the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority to make safety improvements at 39 intersections throughout the county. 

Passaic envisions extensive bike path system. Here's what it could include NorthJersey.com, 6/17/2024 NJTPA MENTION - The county received $300,000 from the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority and with a 25% match, the county had $375,000 to begin planning for the pathways. It has completed some projects like the old New York and Greenwood Lake rail bed and portions of the Morris Canal.

NJ Transit reopens Elizabeth station after $74M renovation and expansion NorthJersey.com, 6/19/2024 - The station fully reopened Tuesday and is the centerpiece of a city trying to enhance its downtown with new development. Unique touches of the city can be seen throughout the renovated building interior and along the fencing, including the iconic arches that support the tracks and a nearby church that dates to the 17th century.

Can the extreme heat impact your commuter train? You bet. NJ.com, 6/18/2024 (PAYWALL) - What weather forecasters called a dangerous heat wave has settled into the state, and it’s going to make life tough for residents — and for the trains that get them to and from work.

Heavier trucks could be coming to N.J. Will roads and bridges be able to support them? NJ.com, 6/19/2024 (PAYWALL) - Heavier trucks could start using the nation’s highways and bridges if a bill to increase tractor trailer weights from 40 to 45 tons passes Congress.

This Jersey Shore county is about to take over its airport NJ.com, 6/19/2024 (PAYWALL) - Cape May County is poised to regain control over its airport after notifying a leading transportation agency managing the property that it will not renew a 30-year-old between the two.

Another summer of hell for riders? NJ Transit, Amtrak repair aging system NorthJersey.com, 6/19/2024 - Michelle D. was one of the thousands of NJ Transit commuters who had an hours-long, hellish journey home recently after wires fell on the tracks a few miles from New York Penn Station, halting trains along the nation's busiest stretch of rail at the worst possible time — 5:05 p.m.

NJ Transit's Sussex County expansion is on track with upgrade to century-old tunnel New Jersey Herald, 6/21/2024 - Work to install a liner inside the Roseville Tunnel is nearly complete, but active commuter rail service to southern Sussex County is still about two years away.

Renewed suspensions, delays, and finger-pointing cap rocky week for transit New Jersey Monitor, 6/21/2024 - Trains on the country’s busiest commuter rail line stopped running Friday for the third time this week amid scorching heat and persistent technical problems, spawning a new round of finger-pointing.

Should NJ mandate automakers sell only EVs and plug-in hybrids? Asbury Park Press, 6/20/2024 - A group of politicians and refinery workers are pushing back on state and federal policies aimed at expanding the sales of electric vehicles, policies that would also limit sales of higher emission gas-powered vehicles.

Here’s how cheap gas will be at the pump in N.J. by July 4 NJ.com, 6/21/2024 - Jersey drivers have been enjoying a different kind of holiday in the past month, a holiday from increasing gas prices as the cost of gasoline has slid since Memorial Day.

N.J. House delegation demands federal investigation into repeated Amtrak issues New Jersey Globe, 6/25/2024 - After a hellish week of delays for NJ Transit commuters caused by issues with Amtrak wires and signals, New Jersey’s entire House delegation sent a letter today to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg asking for a federal investigation to determine what led to the breakdowns and what can be done to prevent similar disasters in the future.

Glimmer Glass Bridge reopens after cracks repaired; replacement could cost $30M Asbury Park Press, 6/25/2024 - The Glimmer Glass Bridge connecting Brielle and Manasquan along Fisk Avenue has been reopened for vehicles and pedestrians. It had closed on June 14 after "necessary repair work" was discovered. 

Port Authority needs $1B loan to replace NYC bus terminal, N.J. congressman says NJ.com, 6/26/2024 (PAYWALL) - A Bergen County congressman said the Port Authority needs a $1 billion loan from the federal government to get its planned replacement of the agency's Manhattan bus terminal underway.

This N.J. town just got millions for its new ferry terminal to N.Y.C. NJ.com, 6/26/2024 (PAYWALL) - The effort to start commuter ferry service between Carteret and New York City got another fiscal boost from a $5.6 million federal infrastructure grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Perth Amboy Breaks Ground on Downtown Pocket Park TAP Into Raritan Bay, 6/26/2024, NJTPA MENTION, City officials are unveiling plans to build a downtown pocket park at Smith Street and Madison Avenue, formerly known as Fink Park, as part of an ongoing effort to curate more green spaces throughout the neighborhoods.

Are NJ Transit fares going up? Here's what you need to know NorthJersey.com, 6/27/2024 - NJ Transit's annual fare increases until the end of time begin Monday. Ticket prices at the public transportation agency go up 15% — and even more for riders who use expiring discount programs — starting July 1, the first rise in fares in nine years and the start of 3% annual fare increases going forward.

Lawmakers advance new business surtax aimed at funding NJ Transit New Jersey Monitor, 6/27/2024 - The 2.5% surtax — called the corporate transit fee — would apply to businesses with more than $10 million in profit. It would affect roughly 600 businesses, is expected to generate about $1 billion in its first year, and would sunset after five years.

Amtrak, NJ Transit will cooperate to address train woes, Murphy pledges NJ Spotlight, 6/27/2024 - Gov. Phil Murphy, the leadership of Amtrak and New Jersey Transit and other officials convened Thursday morning to discuss how the two agencies can better coordinate to address the severe train problems that have plagued commutes in recent weeks.

Clifton officials, residents not fans of Passaic County's safety fix for Allwood Road NorthJersey.com, 6/28/2024 - NJTPA MENTION - Passaic County's plan to improve safety along several miles of Allwood Road in Clifton was not well received by residents who attended a special presentation.The county's plan seeks to slow speeders along the accident-prone county road by cutting its existing four lanes, two in each direction, down to one in each direction with a dedicated turning lane in between. The plan also calls for bike lanes and other improvements.

Carteret awarded $5.6M grant for ferry terminal project NJ BIZ, 6/27/2024 - Carteret received $5.6 million in funding for its planned Carteret Intermodal Transportation Building project as part of $1.8 billion round of grant awards from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The funding comes via the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program.

NJ corporate tax approved, which could give NJ Transit $800 million amid budget woes NorthJersey.com, 6/28/2024 - After a contentious budget season debate over how best to aid NJ Transit through predicted future budget woes, the agency is set to receive about $800 million a year for five years from a new corporate tax passed by the legislature Friday and now headed to Gov. Phil Murphy's desk.

Ocean County seeks to improve busy Lakewood intersection Lakewood Scoop, 8/6/2024, NJTPA Mention — Ocean County in partnership with the NJTPA is conducting a study to investigate options for improving congestion and sfaety along Kennedy Boulevard and County Line Road.

Blowing off tolls? Port Authority nailed 55% more motorists this year. NJ.com, 8/6/2024 (PAYWALL) — Think twice if you’re considering blowing off paying a toll at one of the Port Authority’s six bridges and tunnels. Arrests and summonses for toll evaders was up by more than 50% in the first half of 2024, compared to the same period last year, the agency said.

Kim and Menendez Visit Gateway Project Sites, Highlight Historic Infrastructure Investments InsiderNJ.com, 8/7/2024 — On Monday, Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) and Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08) met with Gateway Development Commission officials and toured project sites throughout New Jersey’s 8th District in Weehawken and North Bergen.

NJ TRANSIT to the Rescue: Takes Over Abandoned Bus Routes NJ1015.com, 8/12/2024 — NJ TRANSIT is coming to the rescue again for bus commuters who lost their ride.
Coach USA in June started Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings and found a buyer for its Suburban Lines in order to stay on the road. The company, however, notified NJ TRANSIT on July 10 that it intended to walk away from three of five contacts effective Aug. 16  in Bergen, Passaic and Hudson counties.
 

Traffic Signal Improvements At 70+ Intersections Proposed In Passaic County Wayne Patch, 8/5/2024, NJTPA MENTION —  County officials are seeking community input on a project aimed at improving traffic congestion and safety at dozens of intersections in Passaic County, including in Wayne.
 

Gottheimer’s plan for getting NJ Transit, Amtrak back on track NJ Spotlight News, 8/12/2024 — The second part of his bill would require Amtrak to begin spending the $66 million that was allocated to the agency through the bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. Many of the problems have been attributed to Amtrak’s old infrastructure and rails that NJ TRANSIT trains travel on. NJ TRANSIT pays Amtrak $100 million a year for use of those rails.

How a huge project at this N.J. port will help it keep its place as the second busiest in the U.S. NJ.com, 8/12/2024 — As the Port of New York and New Jersey continues to handle a record breaking number of cargo containers in the first half of 2024, it took the first steps toward starting a $197.6 million project to put facilities back in service that have been dormant for 23 years.

N.J. towns have wanted a light rail line for 2 decades. It just took a step forward. NJ.com, 8/12/2024 — NJ TRANSIT has agreed to become the “Agency of Record” for the $2 billion, two-decade old effort to build a light-rail line from Glassboro to Camden.

NJ TRANSIT adds buses to River Line after train cancellations leave riders fuming NJ.com, 8/12/2024 — Riders on NJ TRANSIT’s River Line light rail system will get some relief from canceled trains after the agency announced it will adding supplemental bus service and introduce a new schedule starting Monday.

Jersey City unveils new public transportation app NJBIZ.com, 8/12/2024 — Officials in Jersey City marked the launch Aug. 9 of Citymapper JC, a free app that integrates and streamlines all public city transportation services in one location.

Real ID is less than a year away. These are your options if you don’t get one. NJ.com, 8/12/2024 — The clock is ticking for domestic air travelers. There is a May 7, 2025, deadline for Transportation Security Administration officers to require domestic air travelers to present identification that meets the federal Real ID act security standards.

Coach USA to auction 2 New Jersey bus terminals after filing for bankruptcy NorthJersey.com, 8/13/2024 — Paramus-based Coach USA is auctioning off two bus terminals — one in Elizabeth and one in Paulsboro — after the private bus company filed for bankruptcy two months ago. 

Belmar hosts Walkable Community Workshop to enhance 8th Avenue Tapinto.net, 8/4/2024, NJTPA MENTION — The Borough of Belmar is inviting residents, employees, and local businesses to participate in a Walkable Community Workshop on Thursday, August 22. ... This workshop aims to engage the community in addressing walkability and bikeability issues along 8th Avenue, specifically between Ocean Avenue and D Street.

County planning to repair historic Clinton bridge TAPinto Flemington/Raritan, 8/14/2024, NJTPA MENTION — Commissioners approved a $6,000 contract with Michael Baker to develop plans for grants to repair the historic truss bridge in Clinton. Administrator Brad Myhre said the repair cost could run as high as $4 million, and that the county would seek funding through NJTPA, the state transportation department and state historic preservation agencies.

NJ TRANSIT will be free for a week at end of summer plagued by delays NorthJersey.com, 8/15/2024 — NJ TRANSIT will offer a fare holiday from Aug. 26 through Sept. 2, waiving all fares on buses, trains, and light rails as a gesture of appreciation to commuters after a challenging summer marked by service disruptions.

The cost of owning and operating a car in NJ is rising NorthJersey.com, 08/15/2024 — It’s getting more expensive to own and operate a car in New Jersey and across the nation. Thank factors like inflation and higher interest rates, which have driven up the price of insurance and the cost of buying a car. 

Passaic County syncing up more than 70 traffic signals in five towns NorthJersey.com, 8/19/2024, NJTPA MENTION — The county received the funding award through the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority as part of its Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program.

What does the history of rail service in New Jersey tell us about its ongoing dysfunction? New Jersey Monitor, 8/19/2024 — The Acela — and its upcoming replacement — was marred by a botched rollout but has been, by far, the best attempt at bringing high-speed rail to New Jersey. But without straight tracks, nothing approaching the trains of other developed countries is likely to happen.

Closing Kingsland Station in Lyndhurst would create a hardship, riders tell NJ TRANSIT NorthJersey.com, 8/18/2024 — Closing the Kingsland NJ Transit station after the new Lyndhurst Station is completed next spring would pose a hardship for its pedestrian passengers, riders argued at public hearings this week.
 

Planning Board to hold public hearing for Somerset County’s updated transportation plan TAP into Somerville, 8/17/2024, NJTPA MENTION — The Somerset County Planning Board invites residents to a public hearing on the proposed “Keep Somerset Moving Transportation Plan 2045” on Aug. 20.

Flood control projects in 3 NJ cities get federal funding boost NJ Spotlight News, 8/16/2024 — The green infrastructure projects have the potential to absorb about 60 million gallons of rain a year, reducing local flooding and improving the quality of runoff water, the report said.

Work resumes on this dormant N.J. highway project NJ.com, 8/16/2024 — Work on a $41 million project to widen a section of Route 206 that was stalled since April 2023 finally resumed on Aug. 12, state Department of Transportation officials said.

N.J. drivers will be able to write off their E-ZPass tolls if proposed legislation is passed NJ.com, 8/20/2024 (PAYWALL) - A host of lawmakers want to give drivers who’ve been hit with four consecutive increases on state toll rodads a tax break.

Bridge into busy Jersey Shore town closed indefinitely NJ.com, 8/19/2024 - The bridge heading into Wildwood Crest is closed indefinitely after a mechanical failure, the town’s mayor said early Sunday morning.

Newton drafting new rules for e-bikes and scooters with eye on road safety, fires New Jersey Herald, 8/21/2024 - The Town Council will consider new regulations on the use and storage of e-bikes and motorized scooters as the devices become increasingly common on local roads.

Officials still don’t know what broke America’s busiest rail corridor Politico, 8/20/2024 -  Commuters into New York City got pummeled by train delays and cancellations this summer, and nobody knows how to stop it from happening again. Even if they did, resuscitating the vital rail arterial into Manhattan could take years and untold amounts of money.

Monmouth County To Host Meeting On Tennent Road Improvements Project Patch.com, 8/20/2024, NJTPA Mention — Monmouth County will host an online meeting on Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. to inform residents of a study being conducted to find ways to improve safety and congestion along Tennent Road from Devon Drive to Kensington Drive in Manalapan.

Traffic Relief in Middlesex County, NJ- New Lanes Opening Along Route 1 A project designed to reduce traffic along Route 1 in Middlesex County and make your commute a bit smoother is getting underway. The New Jersey Department of Transportation is extending the length of the highway on which drivers can use the shoulder as a travel lane, at least temporarily.
 

NJ Transit rolls out new discount for college students NJ Spotlight News, 8/20/2024 - The Student Pass program allows students who purchase monthly passes in September, October and November to receive a free monthly pass in December.

NJ Transit customers ride for free all week long: here's what to know Don't try to pay the fare for NJ Transit rides this week -- it's free.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy announced that a one-week "fare holiday" will take place for NJ Transit commuters as a "Thank you" to customers who depend on public transportation -- that unfortunately was plagued with continuous issues throughout the summer months.
 
 

Passengers savor brief NJ Transit fare holiday NJ Spotlight News, 8/26/2024 - New Jersey Transit riders are currently enjoying eight consecutive days of free rides. The fare holiday, from Aug. 26 through Sept. 2, which will cost NJ Transit an estimated $19 million, comes after a tumultuous summer that saw a 15% fare hike and widespread delays and cancellations.

Burlington County partnership to increase police presence around River Line communities Whyy.org, 8/26/2024 - For the last couple of weeks, Burlington County sheriff’s officers have been patrolling the streets in the towns served by NJ Transit’s River Line, from Palmyra to Bordentown. It’s part of a partnership between the municipalities, the sheriff’s office and NJ Transit police to actively protect neighborhoods near the light rail.

Opponents ask why the N.J. Turnpike is spending $142M for a bridge the hasn’t been approved yet NJ.com, 8/28/2024 (PAYWALL) - Opponents of New Jersey Turnpike Authority’s plans to build twin $6.2 billion bridges to replace the existing Newark Bay bridge criticized the agency for spending $142 million on the project that hasn’t received a key federal approval.

Warren County seeks input on transportation safety plan Officials in Warren County, New Jersey are working to make the roads and transit systems safer.
The county plans to develop a Local Safety Action Plan (LSAP), which will find and prioritize ways to reduce serious crashes on county and local roads, according to a news release.
 
 

Gateway board takes last step to secure $3.8B for Hudson Rail Tunnel Project The Gateway Development Commission board took the last step Wednesday to secure a $3.8 billion federal grant, the final funding piece for the $16 billion project to build a new rail tunnel that will carry Amtrak and NJ Transit trains under the Hudson River into Manhattan.
 

Newark airport braces for record-breaking Labor Day weekend travel Newark Airport is bracing for a busy Labor Day weekend. Port Authority is expecting 6.7 million travelers to use their airports and crossings during the Labor Day travel period. United Airlines tells News 12 that between Thursday, Aug. 29, through Tuesday, Sept. 3, more than 2.9 million people will use their airlines. That's a 4% increase from last year.
 
 

College students can get a free NJ Transit monthly pass. Here’s how. NJ Transit is rolling out a new promotion this fall to help college students across three states save money during the school year. Students who buy their monthly passes through the NJ Transit mobile app in September, October and November will get a free month of travel in December, the agency announced earlier this month.
To qualify for the free pass, students at partner colleges or universities must purchase a student monthly pass using the agency’s app for three consecutive months.
 

N.Y. - N.J. Port Authority revenues are up over last year. Will the trend continue? NJ.com, 4/30/2024 (PAYWALL) - Port Authority officials were brimming with good news: revenues for the first quarter of 2024 were up by $31 million compared to 2023 and $16 million more than budgeted for. Citing strong airport recovery and proactive toll increases on the authority’s six bridges and tunnels that had minimal impact on traffic levels, Fitch Ratings gave a stable AA- ranking to a $650 million Port Authority bond issue that would fund major capital projects.

Warehouse industry reports point to possible slowdown NJ Spotlight News, 4/30/2024 - Recent data from state and industry sources shows a sharp slowing in the number of building permits issued for warehouse construction last year in New Jersey. Those sources also show a new rise in vacancies, and a lower rate of increase in rents for the giant buildings, which have been springing up throughout the state for several years.

N.J. drawbridge is still stuck in the open position. Free shuttle should help, officials say. NJ.com, 4/30/2024 - People who normally use the Route 71 bridge over the Shark River between Avon and Belmar that’s been stuck in the open position since early March will get a free shuttle bus to ride until the span is fixed. The free ride between the business districts of Belmar and Avon-by-the-Sea was announced by the state Department of Transportation and will start Wednesday morning. It will operate until the bridge is fixed.

NJ's Route 1 has become an increasingly dangerous commute. Here's what police are doing MyCentralJersey, 4/29/2024 - Fatal crashes are up over 27% statewide in the first four months of the year, police said in a statement. Central Jersey leads the state in fatal crashes with Middlesex and Monmouth counties seeing the most deaths, the statement said.

Monmouth County offers free rides for medical visits for anyone who needs one Asbury Park Press, 4/30/2024 -  Monmouth County residents can now schedule two free round-trip rides every week to address their medical, wellness and nutrition appointments. 
 

NJ Transit consulting team is looking to transform the agency. And cut $600M NorthJersey.com, 5/7/2024 - The state is paying North Highland $6.7 million to conduct the study, which the company launched in January. It is expected to deliver “quick wins” in June, with a feasibility study report in late October or November.

Bipartisan bill tasks FAA with ensuring safer takeoffs, flights and landings NJ Spotlight News, 5/7/2024 - The bill requires a study about expanding access for “lower cost passenger carriers at capacity constrained” airports, specifically Newark Liberty International Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy and LaGuardia airports, and it establishes a federal center near Atlantic City as an aviation and aerospace hub.

Fatal crashes rise in NJ, Central Jersey is hot spot NJ Spotlight News, 5/3/2024 - Fatal crashes are up 28% statewide over the last year, according to new data from the New Jersey State Police, and Central Jersey is a hot spot for the problem. There have been 197 fatal crashes statewide so far this year, with 21 of those occurring in either Middlesex County or Monmouth County.

The deadline to get a Real ID is fast approaching. What you need to do to get one. NJ.com, 5/6/2024 (PAYWALL) - Only one in seven New Jersey drivers have opted for the more secure Real ID Driver's license and ID cards that in close to one year will be the only license accepted as identification for domestic air travel.

It just got a little easier to ride the PATH in N.J. NJ.com, 5/4/2024 (PAYWALL) - PATH’s new fare payment system that lets commuters tap their digital chip-enabled cards and smartphones to ride is now in all seven New Jersey rail stations, officials said.

Academy Express bus company, paying $20.5M fraud settlement, seeks NJ Transit contract NorthJersey.com, 5/8/2024 - The Hoboken-based bus company that is still paying off a historic settlement with the state office of the attorney general is up for another contract with NJ Transit, the public transportation agency it was accused of defrauding.

NJ Gov. Murphy: We can get seniors a big tax break and plug NJ Transit's $1B hole Gothamist, 5/9/2024 - Gov. Phil Murphy says he’s confident that he and lawmakers can work out their issues in budget talks — advancing a "landmark" tax relief program for seniors and putting in place the corporate tax he envisions closing NJ Transit's looming budget hole.

Truck traffic at issue in Route 202 warehouse plan in Hunterdon MyCentralJersey.com, 5/10/2024 -  The Township Committee is considering a study of traffic in the entire 37.65-square-mile municipality bisected by two major highways.

Two heavily-traveled bridges in Middlesex and Somerset counties to be replaced MyCentralJersey.com, 5/15/2024 — The state Department of Transportation has announced plans to replace the bridges over the Delaware & Raritan Canal on Landing Lane in New Brunswick and Main Street in South Bound Brook. Construction on the two projects is not expected to begin until May 2027.

Hudson County OKs measure to evaluate ‘pedestrian protection’ for 14th St. Viaduct Hudson County View, 5/10/2024 - Hudson County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $23,920 environmental engineering contract with French and Parrello Associates for pedestrian protection for the 14th Street Viaduct.

If you’re struck by a car on an electric scooter, insurance won’t cover you, high court rules NJ.com, 5/14/2024 — The rider of a low-speed electric scooter is not considered a pedestrian, like bicyclists are, under New Jersey insurance law, the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled Tuesday.

Port Authority sees cargo increase at local ports following Baltimore Bridge collapse News12 New Jersey, 5/10/2024 - The Port Authority is taking in about 10% more cargo since the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore County, Maryland in March. This is not as much as the COVID surge a few years ago, which was about a 30% jump. Still, the ship crash puts under scrutiny how you get those packages, an industry set to boom in the coming years.

NJ Bus Companies Could Face New Rules If They Plan To Cut Routes Patch.com, 5/9/2024 - Over the past few years, four private bus companies have ended or discontinued bus routes in the Garden State: A&C, DeCamp, Coach USA and TransDev. Advocates say the news came as a shock to many riders, who were caught unaware and left in the lurch as they scrambled to find new ways to get to work or other important destinations. That shouldn’t be the case, several state lawmakers say.

Jersey hates NYC’s congestion pricing. But we just made $100K off the plan. NJ.com, 5/14/2024 — New Jersey, which has challenged New York’s congestion pricing plan to charge a fee to enter lower Manhattan in court, is seeing some money out of the plan after all.

Check out the new batch of funny highway signs in New Jersey. Which is your favorite? NorthJersey.com, 5/15/2024 — New Jersey residents are once again getting a chuckle at various points on the highway, as the digital signs reminding them to be safe on the road are back with new messages.

NJ Transit will refund old unused tickets after backlash from customers NJ.com, 5/15/2024 (PAYWALL) — NJ Transit will offer refunds for unused one-way bus, rail and light rail tickets purchased before June 1, 2024, after receiving a firestorm of criticism from riders that their unused tickets would be worthless after a July 1 policy change took effect.

Less than 1 percent of companies would pay this proposed fee to help NJ Transit, report says NJ.com, 5/16/2024 — Gov. Phil Murphy’s proposed corporate transit fee, designed provide the first dedicated funding to help NJ Transit, is not the business killer opponents say it is, according to a report authored by a progressive think tank.

Philadelphia or New York? Lehigh Valley may have to pick single destination for train service. Mass Transit, 5/16/2024 — The LVTS, along with representatives from PennDOT, consulting company WSP and the public, took part in the virtual meeting that went over the Lehigh Valley Passenger Rail Feasibility Analysis released in late March.
 

New Flyer awarded contract from NJ Transit for up to 1,300 clean diesel buses Mass Transit, 5/16/2024 — NFI Group Inc.'s subsidiary, New Flyer of America Inc. (New Flyer), has been awarded a contract from NJ Transit for the purchase of up to 1,300 Xcelsior 40-foot clean-diesel transit buses.
This contract is pursuant to the November 2023 NJ Transit Board authorization for NJ Transit to enter into contracts for 550 40-foot transit buses and options to purchase up to 750 additional 40-foot transit buses. 

What do you think are the most dangerous streets in Ocean County? Use this interactive map Asbury Park Press, 9/2/2024 - Ocean County wants you to identify the most dangerous streets on an online interactive map. You can anonymously place pins, draw lines and write comments about why certain roads or intersections need improvement at Ocean.SafetyPlansNJ.com. Drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and public transit commuters are all welcome to submit complaints.

NBPA Board Votes to Increase Parking Rates at Public Decks New Brunswick Today, 9/1/2024 - The state’s largest parking authority has raised the rates to park in all nine of its decks, starting September 1. The decision came from the New Brunswick Parking Authority (NBPA) Board of Commissioners, at the suggestion of the agency’s longtime boss, Mitch Karon.

Tolls on these N.J. bridges go up Sunday for the first time in 13 years NJ.com, 9/2/2024 - Tolls will increse for the first time since 2011 on the Delaware River Port Authority’s four bridges between New Jersey and Philadelphia Sunday morning.

N.J. makes more arguments against $15 fee to enter N.Y.C., after Gov. Hochul hints at its return NJ.com, 9/2/2024 - The legal team leading New Jersey’s opposition to New York City’s congestion pricing plan have made more arguments hoping to convince a judge to overturn federal approvals of the $15 fee to enter lower Manhattan.

Construction at GWB, Holland and Lincoln tunnels could cause delays this week NorthJersey.com, 9/3/2024 - A busy week for construction will cause lane closures throughout the week at the George Washington Bridge, Holland Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel and Bayonne Bridge, according to Port Authority New York and New Jersey.

Here's when North Jersey's major highways were built and expanded New Jersey Herald, 9/4/2024 - Route 46 is a true major New Jersey highway. It starts and ends in the Garden State. It runs east to west in the northern part of the state. It begins in Knowlton, near the Pennsylvania border, and ends at the George Washington Bridge.

There still isn’t as much traffic on major N.J. highways as there was before COVID NJ.com, 9/3/2024 (PAYWALL) - For drivers who fight the bumper-to-bumper battle each workday on the state’s three major toll roads, it may be hard to believe. But, traffic still isn’t as heavy as it was in 2019, said a financial rating company’s analysis of national toll roads.

US Port Talks Kick Off in Effort to Avoid Strike The union representing East and Gulf coast dockworkers kicks off a two-day meeting Sept. 4 in New Jersey to discuss wage demands with port employers under the threat of a strike that would disrupt maritime trade gateways from Houston to Boston.
 

Grants allow big savings on electric school buses. So why has NJ been slow to adopt? As New Jersey's kids head back to class, the school buses they ride are slowly getting safer for their lungs, and for the environment.
 

Two of Lakewood's busiest, most-dangerous roads slated for improvements Asbury Park Press, 9/5/2024, NJTPA MENTION — Two of the township’s busiest roadways — County Line Road and Kennedy Boulevard — are slated for major traffic safety improvements due to increased accidents and a lack of sidewalks and bike lanes, officials said.

Why an old terminal at Newark Airport and a defunct N.Y.C. tunnel toll plaza are still standing NJ.com, 9/9/2024 - Travelers will continue to see Newark Airport's 51-year-old Terminal A building for the near future, although they won’t use it. For the Lincoln Tunnel toll plazas in Weehawken, those structures have a future date with the wrecking ball.

Lambertville, NJDOT Officials To Look at Pedestrian Safety New Hope Free Press, 9/8/2024 - The main reason the city is joining is to address safety issues associated with walking and biking in the City of Lambertville, which can be difficult during high-traffic times like the weekend and the Christmas season. The city will look to create wider street corridors, where possible, to accommodate all road users, including kids walking to school in the morning and the mobility-challenged.

NJ Transit Honoring USS New Jersey Submarine Commissioning with Free Fares for Military Tapinto.net, 9/10/2024 - In commemoration of the USS New Jersey submarine that will be officially commissioned on Friday, September 14, New Jersey Transit will be offering free rides throughout the system to members of the U.S. military and veterans. 

What a worker’s strike at U.S. ports will mean for consumers NJ.com, 9/10/2024 (PAYWALL) - Union longshoremen could strike on Oct. 1 as the clock ticks down on contract negotiations, stopping merchandise from arriving on retailers’ shelves in time for holiday shopping season.

Traffic deaths have fallen in the U.S. this year, but not in N.J NJ.com, 9/7/2024 (PAYWALL) - The number of people who were killed on the nation’s roads declined slightly during the first half of 2024 when compared to the first six months of 2023, except in New Jersey. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said traffic fatalities fell nationwide by 3.2% between January and June, based on estimates.

New Jersey is One of The Best States for Teen Drivers, According to New Report A North Jersey county also ranks high on a list of best areas for driving tests. Getting a driver’s license is a rite of passage as a teen – and also a source of constant stress and anxiety for the parents. Good news shows that NJ teens are protected by safety laws while on the road, with New Jersey ranking 3rd on a list of the Best States for Teen Drivers, according to a new Wallet Hub report.
 

Defensive driving programs in New Jersey: Costs, benefits, course options Driving can be stressful, especially here in New Jersey.
No matter your age, or how great a driver you've been told you are, mistakes can happen.
According to the state Motor Vehicle Commission, most road accidents are caused by driver error. To combat such mistakes, drivers of all skill levels and ages can take defensive driving courses, many of which are approved by the state and can have several benefits.
 

NJ Transit one-way tickets will expire after 30 days starting this summer NorthJersey.com, 5/7/2024 - New Jersey Transit will be implementing a new policy regarding one-way tickets and Flexpass effective July 1, according to an announcement from the company. Here are the details of the updated policy.

Number of track outages grossly underestimated for Portal Bridge replacement project NorthJersey.com, 5/7/2024 - Construction of the $2.3 billion Portal North Bridge remains on time and on budget despite a vast underestimate of how many track outages and staff would be required, according to Amtrak’s inspector general.

Dozens of groups urge lawmakers to kill $10.7B Turnpike project, fund NJ Transit NJ.com, 5/7/2024 (PAYWALL) - More than two dozen organizations sent a letter to state leaders asking them to support Gov. Phil Murphy's proposed corporate transit fee and end a proposed $10.7 billion New Jersey Turnpike widening project and use that money instead of raising fares 15% this summer.

Contract to build first Gateway rail tunnel coming this year, planners say NJ.com, 5/7/2024 (PAYWALL) - The first contact to build half of the $16 billion Gateway rail tunnels is expected to be awarded either this summer of fall, said officials of the commission overseeing its construction.

Governor’s plan for funding NJ Transit is getting scrutiny NJ Spotlight News, 4/22/2024 - Under the governor’s nearly $56 billion spending plan, a small group of only the state’s most profitable companies would be forced to dig deeper, with the additional revenue earmarked for New Jersey Transit, the state’s chronically cash-strapped bus and rail agency. For some lawmakers, a key issue is whether the governor has picked the right tax to dedicate to supporting NJ Transit’s strained operating budget over the long haul.

Drivers in these NJ Counties have a higher chance of hitting a deer, AAA finds nj1015.com 10/18/2024  Most deer-related crashes occur close to sunset between the months of October and December, as this time of year coincides with deer rutting or mating season, when deer are on the move and more aggressive than usual, according to AAA Northeast.

 

New NJ Transit head Kris Kolluri hopes to take agency in 'positive direction' NorthJersey.com, 2/13/2025 - Kris Kolluri laid out an ambitious set of priorities to tackle at his first public board meeting as the president and CEO of NJ Transit. Kolluri said he plans to focus on three main themes: customer service, safety and reliability; fiscal outlook and efficiency; and rolling stock.

Hoboken PATH station is on track to reopen by end of the month, officials promise NJ.com, 2/14/2025 (PAYWALL) - The $31 million PATH project to rebuild the station and infrastructure at Hoboken Terminal is at the halfway mark and officials promised multiple times on Thursday that it will be done on time.

NJ Transit aims to start Walter Rand Transportation Center this year, advance Glassboro-Camden rail line plans cbsnews.com, 2/21/2025 - South Jersey needs the long-awaited Glassboro-Camden train line to help grow the region's economy and build out an "eds and meds" corridor that connects schools like Rowan University, Rutgers University-Camden, and hospitals to the surrounding communities, NJ Transit's top official said Wednesday. And despite opposition, he signaled it's likely happening.
 
 

In major milestone for NJ Transit, final span for Portal North Bridge arrives roi-nj.com, 2/24/2025 - The third and final span for the Portal North Bridge has arrived, marking a significant step forward in one of the nation’s largest and most ambitious infrastructure projects. NJ TRANSIT President Kris Kolluri, speaking at a sold-out, standing-room-only event in Edison, hosted by the New Jersey Alliance for Action, confirmed to the crowd that the final span will be set in place soon.
 

Government Affairs Forum Explores Infrastructure Investment morriscountynj.gov, 2/24/2025 - Morris County’s infrastructure and transportation priorities were the focus of a panel discussion this week featuring county Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Assemblyman Christian Barranco at a Government Affairs Forum hosted by the Morris County Chamber of Commerce at Tilcon’s corporate office in Parsippany.
 

$8.5 Million Grant to Bring Safety Improvements to Jersey City's Garfield Ave Corridor Tapinto.net, 2/24/2025 - An $8.5 million grant from the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) will help pave the way for significant safety improvements to the Garfield Avenue corridor.

NJ Transit cancels $91M bus contract with Academy over disputed bid process northjersey.com 04/14/2025 NJ Transit canceled a lucrative public bus service contract awarded to Academy Express LLC after a bid protest from a competing company.
 

Drunk Driving is Killing NJ Residents, So MADD and UBER are teaming up nj1015.com 04/14/2025 Mothers Against Drunk Driving and Uber are partnering this April to encourage New Jersey residents to get a ride home instead of drinking and driving. Of the 685 fatal crashes on New Jersey roads in 2022, impaired driving was responsible for 177 — or 26% — of them, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
 

$1.7 billion E-ZPass contract will stay, despite accusations of ties to China Communist Party nj.com 04/16/2025 The New Jersey Turnpike Authority upheld the award of a $1.7 billion, 11-year contract to run New Jersey’s E-ZPass system to a company that a rival accused of having ties to The Communist Party of China.
 

The new Manhattan congestion pricing toll will go into effect June 30 NorthJersey.com, 4/26/24 - The MTA's congestion pricing plan for Manhattan will go into effect on June 30. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority officially passed the plan that will charge vehicles entering Manhattan from New Jersey using the Holland and Lincoln tunnels. Rates vary and there are exceptions.

Verona Selected for 'Complete Streets' Technical Assistance TAPinto Verona/Cedar Grove, 4/27/2024 - NJTPA MENTION - Verona Township will conduct a Complete Streets Corridor Assessment along a half-mile stretch of Linden Avenue through the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) Complete Streets Technical Assistance Program.

Middlesex County officials tout major transportation projects MyCentralJersey.com, 4/25/2024 - Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios noted transportation infrastructure investments making significant headway, like the remodeling of the New Brunswick train station and the construction of the North Brunswick train station, 

Work to replace Lodi's Passaic Avenue Bridge will take a year. Prepare for detours NorthJersey.com, 4/24/2024 - The Passaic Avenue Bridge that crosses over the flood-prone Saddle River will be replaced beginning next month in a $3.5 million, yearlong project.

A section of the N.J. Turnpike in South Jersey is closer to a much-needed expansion NJ.com, 4/24/2024 - The project, which encompasses a 36.5-mile stretch from Exit 1 to Exit 4, would add one lane in each direction to end traffic congestion on what officials said is the last section of the Turnpike mainline still in its original two lane configuration.

Push to use sales tax revenue to help fund NJ Transit NJ Spotlight News, 4/24/2024 - Business lobbyists are suggesting that instead of raising corporate taxes to fund New Jersey Transit, the state should use New Jersey’s fast-growing sales tax revenues to prop up the beleaguered agency.

‘It’s Electric’: Princeton University’s shuttle fleet serves the entire community with zero emissions WHYY, 4/24/2024 - The shift to an all-electric fleet is expected to save about 500 metric tons of carbon emissions a year. In addition to lower greenhouse gas emissions, and cutting additional air pollutants like nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, there are also the savings obtained by not operating a diesel fleet.

Pedestrian Safety Campaign Launches in Union County TAPinto Westfield, 4/23/2024 - NJTPA MENTION - Union County launched its Street Smart NJ pedestrian safety campaign this month at a site where a pedestrian was seriously injured in 2023.

This N.J. bridge was built when Teddy Roosevelt was president. It’s finally getting replaced. NJ.com, 4/23/2024 (PAYWALL) - If the Passaic Avenue bridge were a person, a retirement after 121 years on the job would be well deserved. The busy two-lane span over the Saddle River in Lodi was built in 1903 and finally next month, work will start on a replacement.

NJ releases a 'Statewide Climate Change Resiliency Strategy.' They want your feedback NorthJersey.com, 4/23/2024 - On Monday, to kick off Earth Week, New Jersey's Interagency Council on Climate Change Resilience released a draft of its Extreme Heat Resilience Action Plan and launched an updated version of a digital resource platform called Heat Hub NJ.

New Jersey crowned most densely populated state in the US. Here's why Asbury Park Press, 4/23/2024 - It's no secret that New Jersey's quite popular during the summer season. And according to new list by the finance website, Insider Monkey, there are 19 most densely populated states and New Jerseys ranks at the number one spot. Tell us something that we don't know.

Bike Safety Corridor Is In The Works In Belleville (Here's Where) Patch.com, 4/23/2024 - NJTPA MENTION - A new bicycle safety “corridor” is in the works in Belleville, officials recently announced. Last week, the township announced that it will develop a Bicycle Corridor Plan for the area around Belleville High School and the municipal stadium through the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority’s (NJTPA) Complete Streets Technical Assistance Program.

This Route 78 project will cause delays at the N.J.-Pennsylvania border over the next year NJ.com, 4/22/2024 (PAYWALL) - Drivers using the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission's Route 78 bridge between New Jersey and Pennsylvania are in for some closed lanes during two overnight periods this week that is a prelude to a bigger construction project.

How this massive Route 80 rehabilitation project will impact N.J. drivers over the next decade NJ.com, 4/22/2024 (PAYWALL) - In 1962, the Beatles were a hit in Europe and just being discovered in America. That year, Route 80 started pushing its way through Bergen and Passaic counties along with a string of overpasses carrying local streets over it, all built between 1962 and 1971.