Free NJ Transit rides begin amidst service disruptions

WOODBRIDGE, N.J. (PIX11) – It's fare for all, even if just for a little while. 

"You can't complain about it being free," said Jonathan Eastburn of Jackson. 

Starting Monday and through Labor Day, New Jersey Transit riders will ride at no cost. No tickets needed - buses or trains, get on and get off - music to the ears of Sameer Bhave, who goes to New York twice a week.

"I was happy," said Bhave, traveling to New York from Metropark Station in Woodbridge on Friday. "We can go with my kids and family to have like a fun full day in New York."

"I think it's a great opportunity for people to take advantage of not driving into the City, dealing with the traffic and the tunnels and all that," said Sue West of Jackson. 

"Maybe it would be nice to see that a little more often, more free weeks," said Chris Eastburn, also of Jackson. 

Governor Phil Murphy announced the fare holiday earlier in the month, acknowledging the many disruptions commuters have faced.

"I know that there's been a lot of issues with the train tracks," said train rider Mary Ellen Santiago, "but our government is putting a lot of money in infrastructure, and we're super excited about that."

Meanwhile, Republican State Assemblyman Christopher DePhillips is calling the fare holiday a gimmick.

"It's a PR stunt at worst, a band-aid at best," said DePhillips.

He supports efforts for the Legislature to hold hearings on New Jersey Transit issues, along with Republican Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz.

"I agree, this is a gimmick," said Munoz. "At the end of the day, we're still late for work."

Democratic Assemblyman and Transportation Committee Chair Clinton Calabrese said in a statement:

"As much as the fare holiday provides some temporary relief for commuters, it doesn’t address the underlying issues facing NJ Transit. We need lasting solutions to ensure the long-term reliability and efficiency of our transportation system. That’s why I’m planning to hold a hearing on transportation issues in New Jersey to explore potential improvements and discuss the challenges our transit system is currently facing."

The State Legislature is set to reconvene after Labor Day.