NJ Transit Expands Access with Free Shuttle Pilot
NJ Transit launches free on-demand shuttle service in Monmouth and Bergen counties
NJ Transit Adds Free Shuttle Service April 6
NJ Transit's launching a free on-demand shuttle service to connect riders with bus stops and park-and-ride facilities in Monmouth and Bergen counties. The pilot program, called MicroLink powered by NJ TRANSIT, starts April 6 and will operate weekdays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., transit officials said. The service addresses first-mile and last-mile transportation gaps that often prevent riders from accessing fixed-route bus service.
Federal Grant Funds Two-Year Pilot
The Federal Transit Administration awarded NJ Transit a $7 million grant through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriation Act to fund the two-year pilot program. Transit agencies nationwide have increasingly turned to microtransit services to extend their reach beyond traditional fixed routes, particularly in suburban areas where lower population density makes frequent bus service less viable. NJ Transit developed the service in partnership with Via, a technology company that operates similar on-demand transit systems in more than 20 countries.
Service Covers Two County Zones
In Monmouth County, two service areas will connect riders to Union Hill Park & Ride in Marlboro and Freehold Mall Park & Ride. Bergen County's service covers the Knickerbocker Road corridor, linking to bus routes at Teaneck Armory and Englewood Health Center. The fleet consists of electric and gas-powered vans that seat six passengers, with each vehicle including one wheelchair-accessible seat. Riders can book trips through the MicroLink app or by calling 973-233-4047, using a system similar to rideshare services.
Free Rides During Pilot Period
Customers won't pay fares for MicroLink rides during the two-year pilot, though they'll still need to purchase tickets for connecting bus routes. NJ Transit will monitor ridership demand, customer feedback, and service efficiency throughout the pilot to determine whether similar microtransit zones should be established elsewhere in the state. Officials didn't specify what ridership thresholds would be needed to expand the program beyond the initial two counties.
Riders Can Track Shuttles in Real Time
The service aims to eliminate transportation barriers that prevent commuters from reaching bus stops, particularly in suburban areas where homes and businesses are spread across wider distances. Riders who need assistance booking trips can call the service directly rather than using the app. Moovit provides real-time arrival information for NJ Transit bus routes that connect with MicroLink service, helping riders coordinate their complete journey from origin to destination.
