the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood Nj, Navigating the Garden State’s transportation system is often a challenge — expensive, frustrating, and sometimes maddening. This past year brought battles over congestion pricing, ongoing issues at NJ Transit, and rising tolls. Unfortunately, 2025 is shaping up to continue these trends, though with some major infrastructure improvements on the horizon.
Here’s a breakdown of what commuters and travelers can expect in 2025 for New Jersey transportation.
1. Congestion Pricing Arrives in Manhattan
Starting January 5, 2025, drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street will face congestion pricing tolls:
- Weekday Rates: $9 for passenger and small commercial vehicles (5 a.m. – 9 p.m.).
- Weekend Rates: $9 (9 a.m. – 9 p.m.).
- Overnight Rates: $2.25.
- Truck Rates: Higher than passenger vehicles.
Drivers using the Lincoln and Holland Tunnels can get up to a $3 credit with E-ZPass. These new tolls aim to reduce traffic in Manhattan, improve air quality, and fund New York’s mass transit system.
2. Annual Toll Increases on Major NJ Highways
Drivers on the Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike will see the fifth consecutive 3% toll increase since 2020.
- This automatic increase, known as “indexing,” is part of a larger $2.7 billion budget plan for the New Jersey Turnpike Authority.
3. Port Authority Tolls and PATH Fare Hikes
Starting January 5, 2025, additional toll increases and fare adjustments will hit commuters:
- Toll Increases: A $1 hike at the Lincoln and Holland Tunnels, George Washington Bridge, Bayonne Bridge, Goethals Bridge, and Outerbridge Crossing. Tolls will rise by $0.25 annually through 2028, in addition to inflation-based increases.
- PATH Fare Increase: Fares increase by $0.25, the first hike since 2014. A new 50% discount program for riders with disabilities begins summer 2025.
4. Airport Price Adjustments
To support higher wages for the lowest-paid airport workers, concessionaires at Newark Liberty International Airport will raise prices to a maximum of 15% above local street prices, up from the previous 10% cap. Officials say this move will help retain talent as the Port Authority modernizes its airports.
5. Major Infrastructure Projects
Portal North Bridge Construction Progress
- Key Milestone: In January 2025, the second of three massive arches will be transported to support the new Portal North Bridge over the Hackensack River.
- Why It Matters: The new bridge replaces a swing bridge prone to delays for NJ Transit and Amtrak riders.
- Design: A fixed-span bridge rising 50 feet above the river to eliminate the need for openings.
- Completion: Expected by late 2026.
The Bottom Line for New Jersey Commuters
While 2025 promises more toll increases and potential frustration, progress is being made on key infrastructure projects like the Portal North Bridge. These improvements aim to alleviate long-standing transportation challenges, even as costs continue to climb.
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