NJ Transit Moves to Modernize With $506 Million Bus Fleet Overhaul

NJ Transit approved a $506.7 million contract to replace hundreds of its old buses, updating its public transportation system. The NJ Transit Board of Directors unanimously approved the contract to buy 286 New Flyer Industries buses. Rider reliability and phasing out older buses are the goals.

Many 40-foot buses in use date back nearly two decades, some since the early 2000s. Critics and riders want updates because these aging vehicles are more prone to malfunctions, delays, and maintenance expense overruns. Gov. Phil Murphy promised to replace NJ Transit’s oldest bus and rail vehicles for safer, more reliable service. The new pact is a huge step toward that promise.

The replacement project will retire outmoded buses and increase performance, fuel efficiency, and pollution. New Flyer Industries should assist NJ Transit accomplish environmental targets and cut long-term expenditures. New buses should offer smoother trips, fewer service interruptions, and more comfort.

This investment is considerable, but the expenses of keeping old buses—spare parts, frequent maintenance, and unreliability—are rising. NJ Transit has invested in newer fleet assets to cut costs and boost public confidence in transit. The contract marks a shift toward long-term sustainability and new infrastructure for the agency.

Fleet replacement takes time, and NJ Transit must manage logistics like training, maintenance facility upgrades, and vehicle integration. However, spending $500 million on fleet renewal shows direction.

Sources
NJ Transit Board approval news
Statements from Gov. Phil Murphy regarding fleet modernization
Information on the age and reliability issues of current NJ Transit buses