Governor Murphy announces enhanced transit services for South Jersey residents.
On Wednesday, Governor Phil Murphy unveiled a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing transit options in South Jersey. This plan includes the introduction of eight new electric buses for Camden, as well as million in federal funding designated to bolster “microtransit” ride-sharing services.
The announcement occurred at a gathering hosted by the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey, highlighting a strategic shift in transit support in New Jersey, especially in contrast to the imminent service cuts and fare hikes threatening SEPTA operations in the Philadelphia area.
In a statement regarding the initiative, Governor Murphy emphasized the potential of the new transportation options to better connect residents with essential services such as jobs, schools, and healthcare. He asserted that this enhancement would pave the way for a more robust and interconnected regional economy.
The governor’s office provided further insight into the significance of incorporating eight additional electric buses in Camden, stating that these vehicles would substantially enhance access to clean and reliable transit for local residents. While specific timelines for procuring and deploying the new buses were not disclosed, their introduction would effectively double the current fleet of eight electric buses operated by NJ Transit in Camden.
In addition to the electric buses, Governor Murphy introduced a one-year pilot program that will commence this fall, featuring an express shuttle bus service. This service will provide two round trips each weekday, connecting the Vineland Transportation Center with the Atlantic City Bus Terminal. Operated by the South Jersey Transportation Authority, in collaboration with NJ Transit, the initiative is designed to facilitate access for Cumberland County residents to employment opportunities in Atlantic City while concurrently addressing traffic congestion in the region.
Moreover, the allocation of million in federal funding will support the expansion of microtransit services throughout South Jersey. This initiative aims to improve residents’ transportation options for essential travel. Currently, the Camden Loop microtransit service allows users to book shared minivan rides for a nominal fee of per trip, reflecting a cost-effective solution for commuters.
Since its launch earlier this year, the Camden Loop service has successfully provided 100,000 rides, demonstrating a clear demand for such transit options. State officials recently announced an additional million in state funding to sustain this service, which is indicative of its growing importance to the community. Similar microtransit services, such as the GOTrenton! initiative, also operate within the region, offering comparable shuttle services at affordable rates.
Christina M. Renna, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey, acknowledged the pressing transportation challenges faced by the region, emphasizing that as one travels further south, available mass transit options significantly diminish. She expressed gratitude for the governor’s responsive measures addressing the significant transit concerns raised by the chamber.
Overall, this multipronged initiative illustrates a concerted effort to not only improve public transportation in South Jersey but also to strategically enhance the local economy and address long-standing transportation gaps that affect the region’s residents.
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