Commuters in New Jersey are facing increased transportation costs as of January 1, 2025. Tolls on major highways, including the New Jersey Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway, and the Atlantic City Expressway, have risen by 3%. This change results in an average increase of 16 cents per trip within the state. However, those traveling longer distances will experience a more significant impact due to higher tolls.
In addition to toll increases, a gas tax hike of 2.6 cents per gallon has also been implemented starting New Year's Day.
James Hughes, an economist from Rutgers University and dean emeritus of the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, commented on the situation. He noted that "over the past two years, lower-income residents were saved from rate hikes because federal rescue funds allowed NJ Transit to operate without fare increases during the height of the pandemic." However, he added that "the cushion is now wearing out."
Hughes explained that while these rising transportation costs put pressure on commuters, they are necessary due to NJ Transit's longstanding underfunding issues and its need to replace outdated equipment.
