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Commuters press Monroe officials to seek restored bus service to Jersey City
Summary
Residents told the council there is demonstrated demand to restore Coach/NJ Transit bus service from Monroe to Jersey City and urged the township to re-engage carriers; the council said it will collect ridership data and advocate but the decision rests with the carriers.
Multiple residents urged Monroe Township to push NJ Transit or Coach Lines to reinstate direct commuter service to Jersey City, arguing a restored route would reduce long commutes, ease parking costs and cut emissions.
Michelle Kohler and other commuters described hardship since the service ended after COVID and said employees at local firms (including AIG and others) rely on a direct bus. Sangeita Goli, who identified herself as a resident and employee at AIG, said the group collected preliminary ridership interest and preliminary outreach showed more than 100 potential riders in a limited circle: "Public transportation is not simply a convenience. It is essential infrastructure that strengthens our community," she said, and added that daily commuting costs to Jersey City can reach "$50 to $60 per day," increasing household transportation burdens.
Council and staff said the township does not control NJ Transit or Coach operational decisions but will gather the data, accept petitions or signatures, and re-contact carriers on residents' behalf. Business-administration staff asked for specific rider data (origins, estimated riders per trip) to present to carriers and offered to provide staff contact information for follow-up.
Next steps: Residents were encouraged to submit the ridership data and signatures they have collected; the township said it will advocate with carriers but cannot unilaterally restore service.
Context: Council members said the township last contacted carriers in 2025 and that carrier decisions are driven by ridership and operational considerations. Residents asked the council to explore a pilot service if carriers will not commit to permanent routes.
