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Free rides are being offered for anyone who uses New Jersey Transit trains, buses and Light Rail. Gov. Phil Murphy announced the “fare holiday,” will start on Aug. 26 and last through Sept. 2. Murphy says it’s his way of saying, “thank you” to loyal customers who have had to deal with delays and cancellations this summer. However, the program will come at a cost. It's a gift that will cost NJ Transit $19 million in revenue.
News 12 spoke with Eric, a regular train and bus rider from Matawan. He says he likes the plan and will save $60 to $70, but he's leery. “I get it, it’s a thank you. It’s thank you and it’s nice to have government say thanks in whatever way they can,” Eric says. “It’s kind of a distraction from the problems and again a good distraction but problems really need to be solved."
RELATED: Rep. Gottheimer wants Amtrak to reimburse NJ Transit riders for major delays Those problems include a 15% hike for rail riders that started in July and several days of delays and cancellations for riders along the Northeast Corridor Line. Murphy addressed those issues saying, “The fare holiday is a way to express the sincere appreciation for customers’ continued loyalty and patronage, particularly during a time when transit service has not consistently met their expectations—or our own.” The fare holiday will save commuters money. Those commuting to work over a five-day period - from New Brunswick to New York Penn Station - will save $160. Those leaving Cranford for the city will save $100. But it also gives those who don’t normally ride the rails, due to cost, a chance for a free ride to somewhere like Monmouth Park or into New York City to see a show or simply take in the sights. Karen Morcos is a Rutgers student who was at the New Brunswick train station Thursday with friends heading into New York City. When asked if she'll take advantage of the free rides she said, “Oh yeah for sure...I think it’s a great idea getting to the city can be really expensive and people like to go all of the time to see things and try new food.” In response to recent equipment issues, NJ Transit and Amtrak say they are increasing inspections of equipment, and repairs of overhead wires, which often cause riders to get stuck on trains. "
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