VINELAND, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — New Jersey Transit has launched its new shuttle service with a direct route between Vineland and Atlantic City, giving people more options to get to work at the casinos.
Gov. Phil Murphy announced the shuttle in August as part of a slate of efforts to expand public transportation in South Jersey. There will be two round trips each day, coinciding with shift changes at the casinos. Each shuttle can fit up to 20 passengers.
New Jersey Transportation Commissioner and NJ Transit board chair Fran O’Connor, at a launch event on Wednesday at the Vineland Transportation Center, called it an important step in the goal to enhance mass transit. “This pilot will provide reliable, affordable options for workers and residents in Cumberland County who need to reach Atlantic City, for $6 each way,” he said.
Buses depart Vineland at 5:35 a.m. and 1:35 p.m. Buses leave Atlantic City at 7:45 a.m. and 3:45 p.m., all with one hour of travel time.
New Jersey Transit CEO Kris Kolluri said the idea came from state Sen. Michael Testa.
“What I love about it is, partisanship and party [do] not come in the way when the solution is a good one,” said Kolluri.
Testa said he wanted to help people find a path to financial mobility. He thanked New Jersey Transit for listening.
“We are going to be providing direct transportation and real employment opportunities for people who desperately need those opportunities,” he said.
“This is one heck of a partnership. We all have so much to be very proud of.”