New Jersey Transit Implements 15% Fare Hike Amid Budget Shortfalls

New Jersey Transit, the state's primary public transportation agency, has announced a significant fare increase that will impact commuters across the state. Starting July 1, fares for NJ Transit services, including trains and buses, will rise by 15%, a move aimed at addressing a substantial budget deficit. This decision marks the first fare hike for the agency since 2015, ending nearly a decade of stable prices. The increase comes as NJ Transit grapples with a $100 million budget gap, with projections indicating potential future deficits nearing $800 million. In addition to the immediate 15% increase, the agency's board has approved a perpetual 3% annual fare hike beginning in 2025, intended to keep pace with inflation and reduce the need for future budget-driven fare increases. Despite protests and pleas from the public, the board voted in favor of the hikes, emphasizing the necessity of the measures to maintain service levels and financial stability. The fare adjustments are part of a broader strategy to secure the agency's financial future, but they have sparked concerns among commuters about the affordability and accessibility of public transportation in New Jersey.