Residents of South Jersey have gained a new rapid transit option serving one of the region’s larger employment centers as two major transit players have launched a pilot program between Vineland and Atlantic City.
The service, which rolled out this month, is being operated by the South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA) with the support of NJ Transit. The express service features two roundtrips each weekday between the Vineland Transportation Center and the Atlantic City Bus Terminal.
The new express shuttle bus pilot is the first of three major initiatives announced by Governor Phil Murphy to expand and modernize public transportation options in South Jersey. This new service connects residents from Cumberland County to employment opportunities in Atlantic City while aiming to reduce congestion and improving regional mobility.
“This express shuttle helps remove a key barrier for residents seeking employment in Atlantic City by making their commute more direct and efficient,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri. “It’s one important initiative NJ TRANSIT has committed to in support of Governor Murphy’s broader plan to deliver more responsive transit service throughout South Jersey.”
The service will run a single bus on a split-shift schedule designed to align with local employer shift times. Departures from the Vineland Transportation Center are scheduled for 5:35 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., with return trips departing Atlantic City Bus Terminal at 7:45 a.m. and 3:45 p.m.
Fares for the express bus service will be consistent with existing NJ Transit bus routes, with a proposed one-way fare of $6. Existing NJ Transit monthly eight zone bus passes will be honored by the SJTA for travel on the shuttle.
Several politicians who represent that area lauded the move, including a few that have firsthand experience with community to Atlantic City.
“When I worked at the Sands Casino, I saw firsthand how reliable transportation can open doors for families,” said Assemblyman Antwan McClellan (R-Ocean City). “This new route is an important first step in bringing the kind of transit investment South Jersey has long deserved. By connecting Vineland to Atlantic City, we are creating access for workers, visitors, and new opportunities, and ensuring our region receives the attention it has earned.”
Funding for the pilot will be sourced from NJ Transit Community Mobility programs, the New Jersey Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) initiative, plus other grants.
