New Jersey Transit Approves 15% Fare Hike Amid Financial Struggles

The increase, the first in nearly a decade, is set to address a significant budget shortfall and coincides with New York's controversial congestion toll.

New Jersey Transit's board unanimously voted to increase fares by 15% starting July, marking the first hike in nearly ten years.
The fare hike aims to fill a projected budget gap of over $100 million for 2025, with deficits expected to grow substantially by 2026.
Governor Phil Murphy faces challenges both from within New Jersey and from New York's congestion toll, which has sparked legal and political disputes.
Public opposition to the fare increase is strong, with protests and criticism highlighting the impact on daily commuters and working families.
The decision comes as New York continues its transit modernization efforts, funded in part by the new tolls intended to reduce Manhattan congestion.