By: Richard L. Smith
In response to Coach USA's abrupt decision to discontinue service on several key routes, NJ TRANSIT will initiate an emergency bus service plan across Bergen, Passaic, and Hudson counties beginning August 17th.
This swift action ensures that thousands of daily commuters will continue to have access to uninterrupted transportation.
The emergency plan, developed under considerable time constraints, underscores NJ TRANSIT's commitment to maintaining vital bus services in the face of unexpected challenges.
“While this situation presents significant demands on our resources, NJ TRANSIT is once again stepping up to ensure that our customers are not left stranded after another private carrier withdraws service with minimal notice,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin S. Corbett.
In Bergen and Passaic counties, Academy Bus will assume operation of the affected routes, with no changes to existing schedules, fares, or routes.
Academy, originally scheduled to take over Passaic County routes on September 1, 2024, will now commence service two weeks earlier to avoid any disruption.
In Hudson County, NJ TRANSIT will directly operate the routes using its existing resources, carefully managing the impact on its broader bus network.
Customers on all affected routes—Bergen: 751, 752, 753, 755, 756, 762, 772, 780; Passaic: 702, 705, 707, 709, 722, 744, 746, 748, 758; Hudson: 2, 84, 88—can expect no changes in bus stops, schedules, or fares. Riders should continue to purchase tickets as usual and monitor NJ TRANSIT’s website for any updates.
The sudden cessation by Coach USA, which officially notified NJ TRANSIT on July 10th of its intent to abandon these contracts, mirrors previous withdrawals by other private carriers, such as DeCamp, A&C, and O.N.E. last year.
These recurring withdrawals have placed considerable strain on NJ TRANSIT’s resources, yet the agency continues to prioritize service continuity for its customers.
For the latest information and timetables, customers are advised to visit HERE.
