NJ Transit is continuing its annual tradition of raising its fares on buses and trains. The increase in fares is an NJT policy implemented to raise fares by 3% annually every July 1.
Over the years, NJ Transit has consistently raised its fares while neglecting constant issues such as an aging fleet of locomotives and rail cars. Overhead wire issues and rusted tracks are also persistent issues, but the rails and wires are owned and operated by Amtrak. The core problem is: why raise fares when, in return, the rider is receiving the same mediocre experience? It’s easy to see the problem when you are a regular on NJT traveling into the city for work. Personally, I used NJT many times to get into the city while I worked at the New York Post in 2024. There were two instances when I did not get home until late at night due to massive delays in the Hudson tunnels. Anyone who takes the train into the city for work knows just how frustrating the experience can be when there are long delays getting home.
While criticism of NJ Transit is warranted since it is run by the state government, there have been some significant improvements to the system. Last year, I wrote that NJT customers deserve a better return on investment when it comes to paying fares for travel. First, NJT has been implementing new windows on the trains instead of fogged-up ones that have been there for years. Second, a new fleet of rail cars with USB charging ports is set to hit the rails sometime this year. Lastly, the Arrow III EMUs, which have been used by NJT since 1977, are set to be replaced by a new fleet of Multilevel III rail cars. Most notably, the new Portal North Bridge opened earlier this year, replacing the former one, which was 116 years old. Only one rail is open now, with the second rail opening this fall.
Over the years, public confidence in NJT has eroded slowly, but there are reasons for cautious optimism about NJT’s future. Fiscal Year 2027 will be that big test. Unfortunately, there will always be delays using public transportation for several legitimate reasons, such as track maintenance, police investigations, and train derailments. Expecting perfection is certainly unrealistic, but NJT should do what is in its power to ensure all riders have a great experience using public transportation.
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