NJ Transit Proposes 15% Fare Hike to Address Budget Deficits

NJ Transit is proposing a 15% fare hike, the first in nine years, with 3% annual increases thereafter, to address a looming fiscal deficit. The proposal aims to maintain current service levels for the next fiscal year and includes $44 million in internal cost reductions and $52 million in revenue enhancements. State aid is expected to remain unchanged, and the fare hike could generate about $106.6 million in revenue. Public hearings will be held to gather feedback, and the proposal will go before NJ Transit’s board for a vote after the comment period ends on March 8.