New Jersey Introduces Free On-Demand Micro Shuttle Service to Improve Daily Commutes
New Jersey commuters in Bergen and Monmouth counties are set to experience a new way of traveling as NJ Transit rolls out its free MicroLink shuttle service. The program, launching this week, is designed to make daily travel easier by connecting local neighborhoods directly to major bus stops and park-and-ride locations.
The MicroLink service is part of a two-year pilot program funded with $7 million from the Federal Transit Administration. It focuses on improving access to public transportation by offering flexible, on-demand rides. Instead of relying only on fixed bus routes, commuters can now request a ride closer to their homes, making the overall journey more convenient and time-saving.
The service operates on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and allows riders to book trips using a mobile app or by phone. Once a ride is requested, passengers are directed to a nearby pickup point within walking distance. The system works similarly to popular ride-sharing services, making it easy for users to understand and use.
Officials say the goal is to remove common barriers that prevent people from using public transportation. By offering a service that adapts to riders’ needs, NJ Transit aims to create smoother connections between neighborhoods and existing bus networks. This approach is expected to help more people rely on public transit for their daily commutes.
In Monmouth County, the pilot program covers two main service areas along the Route 9 corridor. One area connects parts of Manalapan and Marlboro to the Union Hill Park & Ride, while the other links Freehold Township and Freehold Borough to the Freehold Mall Park & Ride. These routes are designed to replace certain bus diversions, making travel more direct and efficient for commuters.
In Bergen County, the service operates along the Knickerbocker Road corridor, covering areas such as Bergenfield, Tenafly, Englewood, and Teaneck. It connects riders to NJ Transit’s regular bus services through multiple access points, including major stops like the Teaneck Armory and Englewood Health Center.
To ensure smooth travel, commuters are advised to book their rides at least 20 to 30 minutes before departure. The service uses a mix of electric and gas-powered vans, each equipped with seating for six passengers and accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible seat.
Transportation experts see MicroLink as a modern solution to long-standing commuting challenges. By combining technology with public transit, the program offers a more personalized travel experience while still supporting the larger transit network.
If successful, this pilot could reshape how public transportation works in New Jersey, making it more flexible, accessible, and user-friendly for thousands of daily riders.
Sources:
Federal Transit Administration
NJ Transit Official Statements
