EZ Ride invites you to our Annual Recognition Event on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth, NJ. This special occasion honors schools, municipalities and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing mobility, safety and sustainability in our communities.

This year, we are proud to recognize outstanding organizations in the following categories:

A complete list of all Safe Routes to School Awards is available online at saferoutenj.org.

In addition to organizational awards, we will also present individual honors:

The event will begin with a buffet lunch, providing an opportunity for networking and a video tribute to this year’s awardees. Afterwards, attendees will enjoy presentations from three featured speakers sharing impactful programs in their communities:

Join us in celebrating the outstanding achievements and dedication of our partners. Please note that seating is limited to two attendees per organization. Register by September 10 to secure your spot.

REGISTER NOW

 

August 2025

The Essex County Division of Family Assistance & Benefits (DFAB) provides critical support to families and individuals facing financial, medical, and housing challenges.

Through programs such as Work First New Jersey Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Work First New Jersey General Assistance (GA), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and New Jersey FamilyCare (NJFC), DFAB connects residents with resources designed to promote stability, independence, and self-sufficiency.

DFAB has partnered with EZ Ride to launch a pilot transportation program using the EZ Ryde4Life service, which provides our Work First New Jersey (WFNJ) clients rides using transportation providers like Lyft and Uber. WFNJ clients that meet special eligibility criteria will be able to get safe and reliable rides through EZ Ride for immediate needs services.

“Transportation can be a major hurdle for our WFNJ clients,” said Uchenna Duru, Fiscal Analyst at DFAB. “The EZ Ryde4Life program helps bridge that gap by providing dependable rides for emergency assistance services determined by Essex County Division of Family Assistance & Benefits. The flexibility in scheduling and the detailed monthly reporting from EZ Ride will help us administer the program efficiently. We look forward to this partnership.”

EZ Ride shares that commitment. “At EZ Ride, we believe transportation is essential to quality of life,” said Krishna Murthy, CEO of EZ Ride. “We are pleased to work with Essex County DFAB to provide safe, affordable, and reliable rides for those who need them most.”

This initial pilot will allow DFAB and EZ Ride to evaluate the program’s impact and explore ways to expand transportation access for more Essex County residents in need.

Interested in creating a similar transportation program for your community? Contact Kinga Skora at [email protected] or call 201-939-4242 ext. 131 for details.

August 2025

Cycling promotes physical activity, improves air quality, reduces traffic congestion, and reduces the need for parking. Bikeshare programs help more people experience these benefits.

EZ Ride congratulates the City of Passaic on the successful launch of its new bikeshare program. With no cost to users—all that’s needed is a smartphone, a credit card, and to be over 18—it’s now easier than ever for residents to get around by bike.

Passaic’s bikeshare program is part of the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign and a key step toward the City’s Bicycle Master Plan. “The goal is to add dedicated bike lanes with bicycle boulevards, buffered bike lanes, and two-way cycle tracks, providing safe access to stores, transportation hubs, and parks,” said Mayor Hector C. Lora. “EZ Ride is currently one of the many partners assisting and providing guidance with this Plan.”

Last year, EZ Ride partnered with Passaic High School students and residents to install curb extensions at Monroe Street & Columbia Avenue to improve safety for people walking and biking. This year, with a $9,000 mini-grant from People for Bikes, we are encouraging residents to use bikeshare for commuting and recreation.

In partnership with the Urban Enterprise Zone, we are offering free bike safety classes at all five bikeshare docks. Participants learn state laws, hand signals, helmet fitting, and safe group riding. Each class ends with a fun neighborhood ride and includes a free helmet and reflective vest. So far, we’ve hosted seven classes and reached 31 residents.

We applaud Passaic’s commitment to active transportation. If you’re interested in launching a bikeshare program in your city and need help with funding or implementation, contact EZ Ride via email [email protected] or call (201) 939-4242, option 3.

Let’s keep rolling toward safer, healthier communities!

August 2025

In the 1950s, Eric Weis launched a dry cleaning business in Ramsey, starting with a small fleet of delivery vehicles bringing freshly cleaned clothes to customers. Over the years, Eric diversified into car leasing, real estate, and electronics—always focused on providing quality service to the community.

During the 1973 fuel crisis, Eric installed two large gasoline and diesel tanks to support his business and help employees and clients. Unfortunately, both tanks eventually developed leaks, resulting in a costly $25,000 environmental cleanup bill.

Determined to reduce fuel expenses and environmental risks, the company shifted its delivery fleet first to hybrid vehicles and then, over time, to a fully electric fleet. In 2017, J&S Realty installed Level 2 EV charging stations on-site to power their growing electric fleet. To further support clean transportation, in 2018 the company secured an NJDEP grant and added three dual-port Level 2 chargers in their parking lot, allowing both employees and customers to charge their vehicles. The popularity of these chargers soared—usage grew from one session every two weeks to an average of two sessions per day on each charger. In 2019, the company opened their chargers to all Ramsey residents and the public after business hours, strengthening community ties and encouraging broader EV adoption.

In recognition of their leadership, J&S Realty received the Gold-level Electric Vehicle Adoption Leadership (EVAL) award in 2024 for providing workplace and public charging and promoting electric vehicle use.

“Going electric has been a boon for our business. We’ve significantly reduced our fuel and maintenance costs, and our EV chargers have brought in new customers, as residents come to charge their vehicles and value our commitment to sustainable transportation. I encourage all local businesses to consider adding electric vehicles to their fleets,” says Eric Weis of J&S Realty.

For assistance with EV grants, fleet electrification strategies, or product recommendations, contact us at [email protected] or call 201-939-4242, option 6. Our staff can help with technical resources and guide your business toward national EVAL certification, helping you stand out as an EV leader.

August 2025

Dear Friends of EZ Ride,

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our dear Trustee, Kent E. Hansen.

Kent joined the EZ Ride Board in 2017 and, from the very beginning, brought unwavering dedication to our mission along with his deep legal expertise. As a representative of Pro Bono Partnership, he connected us with volunteer attorneys from leading law firms, guiding us through more than 20 matters over the years. His contributions ranged from complex transactions such as asset transfers, real estate purchases, and trademark registration and enforcement, to contract reviews, sales tax audits, property tax exemptions, and 403(b) plan guidance. He also provided invaluable advice on employment law matters, including compliance with the WARN Act.

Working with Kent was a privilege. His support extended far beyond legal counsel—it brought us peace of mind, knowing that our small nonprofit could count on reliable, expert legal guidance when we needed it most. His generosity and commitment have left a lasting imprint on EZ Ride and laid the foundation for our continued success. Kent’s professional career was equally distinguished. He served for 23 years as General Counsel and Secretary of Fedders Corporation, and later as a consultant, corporate secretary, and counsel. He began volunteering with Pro Bono Partnership in 2011 and joined its staff in 2013. His dedication to service extended well beyond his professional life—he also served for many years on the Jefferson Township Board of Education.

Most important to Kent was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, and proud grandfather. His kindness, wisdom, and generosity touched everyone who knew him.

In recognition of his extraordinary impact, EZ Ride will honor his legacy through the Kent E. Hansen Friends of EZ Ride Award, presented annually to an individual who embodies his spirit of empowering nonprofits with kindness, integrity, and compassion.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Kent’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. We are deeply grateful for his friendship, guidance, and the example he set for us all.

With sympathy,

 

July 2025

We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the entire EZ Ride Bike & Pedestrian Program team for their outstanding effort and commitment. Their hard work and dedication played a pivotal role in helping more than 200 organizations win Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Recognition Awards. Thanks to the team’s tireless advocacy and on-the-ground support, 224 winners were recognized this year by the New Jersey Department of Transportation — including 147 schools and 77 municipalities. EZ Ride’s 224 winners accounted for 62.7 percent of the 357 awardees in the state.

Our Bike & Pedestrian team’s comprehensive approach included organizing nearly 800 events, such as safety presentations, poster contests, bike safety workshops, walk assessments, and walk-to-school days, which collectively reached over 44,000 students. These impactful initiatives have promoted safer walking and biking in Bergen, Essex, Monmouth, Passaic, and Union counties.

Importantly, 67 percent—or 150—of this year’s 224 awardees are from disadvantaged communities, highlighting our steadfast commitment to equity and inclusivity. The recognition levels of this year’s winners are as follows:

These awards not only recognize each organization’s dedication to safe walking and biking but also help them with Sustainable Jersey certification and strengthen applications for NJDOT infrastructure grants, such as TA Set Aside grants or federal Safe Routes grants.

The impact of our team’s work is felt and deeply appreciated by school communities. William Fleming, Principal of Hoover Elementary, Bergenfield, said, “The incredible support from the EZ Ride Bike & Pedestrian Program team has been instrumental in our Safe Routes to School success. Their dedication, guidance, and hands-on partnership empowered our students, staff, and families to prioritize safe and healthy travel. Winning the SRTS Recognition Award is a proud moment for Hoover School, and we share this achievement with the entire EZ Ride team.”

To celebrate these remarkable achievements, EZ Ride will host its Annual Recognition Luncheon on September 25th at the Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth. All winners will be invited to attend and recognized for their valuable contributions to safer and healthier communities through active transportation. The full list of awardees can be found at saferoutesnj.org.

For additional information about the program or the recognition event, please email [email protected] or call 201-939-4242, option 3.

July 2025

We are excited to announce a new partnership between EZ Ride and Henderson Road Supportive Urban Renewal Associates, L.P., an affiliate of  RPM Development Group, to launch a pilot transportation program designed to support residents of RPM’s Supportive Housing Project in South Brunswick. This initiative aims to break down transportation barriers and empower residents to access essential services, appointments, shopping, and community activities with greater ease.

How the Program Works

“We’re delighted to use the EZ Ryde4Life program to empower our residents with greater independence through reliable transportation. We believe the program is well-equipped to meet the transportation needs of our community members and enhance their quality of life. Partnering with EZ Ride gives us confidence that our transportation needs will be managed with care and professionalism—we’re looking forward to working together,” said Kim Copeland, Director of Social Services at RPM.

Get Involved or Learn More

Interested in launching a similar pilot or customizing a transportation program for your community? Contact Kinga Skora at [email protected] or call 201-939-4242 ext. 131 for more information.

Together, we’re making mobility accessible for all—one ride at a time.

July 2025

This summer, Westfield’s commitment to safe and active transportation took center stage as six local elementary schools partnered with EZ Ride to deliver comprehensive bike safety education. The initiative aimed to ensure that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for safe cycling throughout the summer and beyond.

Highlights of the Program

“From helmet tips to traffic rules, our students are learning how to ride smart and stay safe,” said Wilson Elementary School Principal Crystal Marsh.

Inclusive and Ongoing Community Efforts

Recognition and Impact

Westfield’s dedication to bike safety has been instrumental in earning recent awards from the Safe Routes to School program. By investing in education and community engagement, Westfield is creating safer, healthier, and more accessible streets for everyone.

For more information about Safe Routes to School or to schedule an educational program in your community, please contact [email protected] or call (201) 939-4242, option 3.

 

July 2025

Mercer County is setting the standard for electric vehicle (EV) adoption and sustainable transportation among New Jersey counties. Through a comprehensive commitment to clean mobility, the county has earned Gold and Silver Electric Vehicle Adoption Leader (EVAL) Certifications at 11 county buildings and facilities. This national certification, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, recognizes organizations that excel in providing EV charging infrastructure, implementing supportive workplace policies, and encouraging sustainable commuting options such as carpooling, biking, and public transit.

A cornerstone of Mercer County’s EVAL certification effort is the installation of fifteen EV charging stations—including four DC Fast Chargers—across key worksites and public facilities. These stations are conveniently located at the Mercer County Administration Building, the Mercer County Improvement Authority, county parks, golf courses, and technical schools. Designed to serve both employees and the public, the chargers feature accessible pricing and 24-hour availability at most locations. Mercer County leveraged grants from NJDEP’s It Pay$ to Plug In and the Clean Energy Electric Vehicle Tourism Grant Program to make these installations possible.

The county’s Master Plan prioritizes reducing emissions and energy use from transportation, incorporating strategies from the New Jersey Energy Master Plan and local sustainability initiatives. Special emphasis is placed on expanding EV ownership and clean transportation options in low- and moderate-income and environmental justice communities.

“Mercer County is excited to join the ranks of EVAL-certified organizations. We’re serious about our commitment to sustainability, and that means making it as easy as possible for our employees and residents to make an energy-saving choice like driving an electric vehicle,” said County Executive Dan Benson.

Looking ahead, Mercer County is conducting a Fleet Transition Study to guide the electrification of its general fleet and its Transportation Resources to Aid the Disadvantaged and Elderly (TRADE) fleet. This initiative ensures that the county’s transition to electric vehicles aligns with New Jersey’s Energy Master Plan and supports equitable access to clean transportation.

EZ Ride congratulates Mercer County on achieving 11 EVAL certifications and applauds its comprehensive approach to clean transportation. If your organization or community is interested in advancing EV adoption and pursuing EVAL certification, EZ Ride is here to help. We offer guidance on grants, technical resources, workplace charging solutions, and a Fire Awareness program for first responders.

Contact us at [email protected] to get started on your journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.

July 2025

Six months ago, we introduced our readers to the Bergen County Mobility Resource Guide—designed to make travel smarter, greener, and more accessible for everyone. Thanks to your enthusiastic response and valuable feedback, we’re pleased to announce the release of an updated edition of the guide that is simplified and more streamlined!

Whether you’re a commuter looking for new travel hacks, an older adult in search of more accessible transit options, a caseworker supporting clients, or a business leader evaluating transportation access, the guide remains your go-to source for navigating Bergen County’s extensive transportation network.

The updated guide makes it easier than ever for residents to find reliable, local transportation for everyday life. This guide also serves as a practical resource for leaders and planners to evaluate services, address gaps and shape future transit improvements.

Access the Updated Guide Today

Download the newly updated Bergen County Mobility Resource Guide and take the next step toward transforming your travel experience.

Let’s build a healthier, more mobile Bergen County—together!