NJ Transit fare hike plan “a little outrageous,” says Beck

Ahead of this afternoon's public comment session in Freehold Township, shore-base State Senator Jennifer Beck (R-11) blasted NJ Transit's proposal for a fare increase and service reductions that the agency says will help close a deep budget gap.

The Freehold hearing is one of nine that NJ Transit is holding for feedback in what Executive Director Ronnie Hakim has characterized as a last resort to soak up some $60 million dollars worth of red ink.

The agency reportedly explored several options before drawing up a scenario of higher fares and service reductions, and a spokesperson has reiterated that nothing is finalized.

It is doing little to mollify Sen. Beck, as well as a coalition of groups including the Tri-State Transportation Campaign, AAA-New Jersey, Delaware Valley Association of Rail Riders and New Jersey Working Families. Members of the groups say they will have a presence at all nine hearings that continue through May 21.

"This is getting to be a little outrageous to me, as well as in the minds of many residents and commuters,” Beck said in a prepared statement. “Just five years ago, NJ Transit increased fares by 25%. Now they have come back with another plan for a 9% increase in fares, paired with service cuts. Residents in my district, who overwhelmingly use NJ Transit if they are commuting into North Jersey or New York City, shouldn’t be saddled with constantly increasing fares. These residents deserve better.”

The hearing begins at 5:30 PM in the Monmouth County Agricultural Building, 4000 Kozloski Road.