NJ Transit, Via to launch microtransit pilot program in parts of Monmouth and Bergen counties
New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) has partnered with Via to launch a pilot microtransit shuttle program in portions of Monmouth and Bergen, N.J., counties. Launching on April 6 and supported with funding from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), the service will offer free connections to major bus stops and park & rides, linking passengers to NJ Transit’s fixed-route bus network.
“MicroLink powered by NJ Transit is a smart, customer-focused investment that is part of building a more connected, reliable and rider-focused NJ Transit,” said New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill. “By bringing flexible, on-demand service to communities in Monmouth and Bergen counties, and meeting people where they are, we’re making it easier than ever to access a transit system that works for riders.”
MicroLink will operate from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. weekdays. Rides are free, on-demand and accessible through the MicroLink app or by phone. All service is compliant with the ADA.
The Monmouth County pilot program operates in two service areas. Service area one encompasses sections of Manalapan and Marlboro to connect passengers to and from the Union Hill Park & Ride. Service area two covers sections of Freehold Township and Freehold Borough to connect customers to and from the Freehold Mall, N.J. Park & Ride. These services are directly operated by NJ Transit utilizing software provided through Via.
“Thanks to funding support from the FTA, we are pleased to introduce ‘MicroLink powered by NJ Transit’ as a new way to make transit more accessible and convenient for our customers when it comes to first- and last-mile connections,” said NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri. “By offering flexible, on-demand service, we are helping customers more easily connect to our bus network while also expanding access to the broader transit system for a more seamless trip.”
The Bergen County pilot program will be operated by Via under a contract with NJ Transit. The microtransit zone is centered along the Knickerbocker Road corridor encompassing sections of Bergenfield, Tenafly, Englewood and Teaneck. The service connects customers to and from NJ Transit’s fixed-route bus service, including routes at the Teaneck Armory and Englewood Health Center.
During the pilot program, the MicroLink portion of the trip is provided for free to the rider. Riders must still purchase their fare for the fixed route bus they are connecting to or from. More information about MicroLink, including specific pickup locations, maps of the service zones and how to use the service, can be found on NJ Transit’s website.
"We are thrilled to partner with NJ Transit to bring the next generation of public mobility to Monmouth and Bergen County,” said Via Chief Revenue Officer Michael Vaccarino. “By integrating Via’s intelligent microtransit technology into the region’s existing infrastructure, we are making transit more flexible, accessible and efficient for thousands of residents. MicroLink powered by NJ Transit underscores our shared commitment to expanding opportunity and access for New Jersey commuters through enhanced first and last mile connection."
NJ Transit notes that anyone is eligible to book a ride through the app or by phone. Since the service is on demand, NJ Transit recommends booking rides 20 to 30 minutes before expected departure time. All MicroLink trips are ADA accessible, however, the service is distinct from Access LINK, which is NJ Transit’s dedicated paratransit service for people with disabilities.
MicroLink is a two year long pilot program funded in part by a $7 million FTA federal grant through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriation Act. During the pilot, NJ Transit says it will monitor several data points including ridership demand, customer feedback and service efficiency to determine if similar microtransit zones can be established elsewhere around the state.