NJ TRANSIT on Track to Fully Modernize Bus Fleet by 2031
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, your bus ride in New Jersey is about to get a major upgrade. NJ TRANSIT’s Board of Directors has approved the purchase of 260 new 40-foot buses and up to 26 zero-emission buses, a final authorization that puts the agency on track to have a fully modernized fleet by 2031 for the first time in its history.
This latest move fulfills a key pledge from NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri to replace every vehicle in need of replacement. The new buses are expected to provide a more reliable and comfortable experience for customers while also reducing operating and maintenance costs for the agency.
What the New Buses Mean for Riders
The new buses, which will replace a majority of the agency’s outdated 40-foot fleet, will come equipped with a range of modern amenities and enhanced safety features:
- USB Charging Ports: A highly requested feature that will allow passengers to charge their devices on the go.
- Enhanced Safety: The new buses will include security cameras, blind spot cameras, and turn warning systems for improved safety for both riders and pedestrians.
- Improved Reliability: The new vehicles are expected to significantly reduce maintenance issues and improve service consistency.
The purchase, which has a cost of up to $506.7 million, is a significant investment in the future of public transportation in New Jersey. The authorization includes a commitment to acquiring Zero-Emission Buses (ZEBs), aligning with the agency’s strategic plan and its goal of a more sustainable fleet.
A Multi-Year Modernization Plan
This latest purchase is part of a larger, multi-year strategy to modernize NJ TRANSIT’s fleet. Since January 2019, the agency has authorized the purchase of over 1,400 new buses, representing a total investment of more than $1.7 billion. This includes articulated buses and a growing number of battery-electric vehicles, showcasing a long-term commitment to sustainability and efficiency.
As the nation’s largest statewide public transportation system, NJ TRANSIT serves more than 925,000 weekday trips. This significant investment in a modern bus fleet is a critical step toward providing the safe, reliable, and convenient service that riders deserve.
Gusto is a payroll and HR software that helps you pay your team, file taxes, offer benefits, and more. See how Gusto compares to other providers, get a free trial, and learn how to switch to Gusto in minutes.
https://gusto.com/i/james3539
