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!

July 2025

We are pleased to announce that EZ Ride has been selected by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) as a recipient of a transportation planning grant, as featured in a recent NJDEP press release highlighting several Transportation Management Associations (TMAs) across the state.

This award will support EZ Ride’s ongoing commitment to advancing innovative, equitable, and sustainable mobility solutions in New Jersey. Specifically, the grant will fund comprehensive transportation planning efforts in the communities of Plainfield and Orange, enabling us to assess local needs, engage residents and stakeholders, and design actionable strategies to improve transportation access and reduce congestion.

EZ Ride is honored to be recognized by the NJDEP for our work and dedication to making transportation more accessible and environmentally friendly. This grant builds on our successful track record of implementing programs that benefit both people and businesses, while also improving air quality and reducing traffic in our communities.

We look forward to collaborating with local officials, community organizations, and residents in Plainfield and Orange to ensure our planning initiatives reflect the unique needs and aspirations of each community. Together, we will continue to drive toward a cleaner, greener, and more connected New Jersey.

Stay tuned for updates as we launch these important planning projects and invite your participation in shaping the future of transportation in Plainfield and Orange.

June 2025

Since 2004, Essex County has partnered with EZ Ride to operate three essential shuttle services that support low-income residents: the Night Owl Shuttle, Route 10 Shuttle and the Fairfield- West Caldwell Shuttle.

These shuttles are partially funded by the NJ-Job Access & Reverse Commute (NJ-JARC) Program, which offers operating assistance to localities to help connect low income persons to jobs and other employment related services.

Essex County administers these shuttle programs through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process every five years. EZ Ride has consistently been selected to operate the services for more than two decades – a testament to the organization’s reliability and commitment.

Among the three shuttle services, the Night Owl Shuttle is the most heavily used. Operating daily from 1:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m., it provides critical transportation between Newark Penn Station and residents’ homes in Newark, Orange, East Orange, and Irvington. Many residents depend on the shuttle to reach early-morning or overnight shifts, particularly at Newark Airport. On average, more than 100 residents use the service each night, highlighting its essential role in supporting the local workforce.

“For more than 20 years, our partnership with EZ Ride has helped ensure that residents—especially those in underserved communities—can get to work, school, and essential services,” said Michael Vieira, Director of Special Transportation Services of the Essex County Department of Economic Development & Training. “These shuttle programs are more than just transportation—they are a bridge to opportunity, economic growth, and community well-being.”

EZ Ride is proud to promote economic mobility by providing safe, reliable access to employment. Our longstanding partnership with Essex County illustrates the essential role these shuttles play in connecting communities to jobs and essential services—serving as a lifeline for many workers and families.

For more information on EZ Ride’s shuttle programs, contact Kinga Skora at [email protected] or call 201-939-4242 ext. 131.

In December 2023, the City of Asbury Park decided to improve mobility for older adults and income-eligible residents by partnering with EZ Ride to launch the EZ Ryde4Life@ Asbury Park transportation program. This initiative, powered by Lyft and Uber, demonstrates how a community-driven approach can break down transportation barriers and foster a culture of health and independence.

How the Program Works

Program Evolution: Listening and Adapting

Initially, the program offered up to six subsidized rides per month with a $15 subsidy per trip and a $50 deposit to join. While the concept was strong, participation was limited, with only a handful of residents enrolling and low utilization. The city sought feedback from the residents and in April 2025, made several changes:

Immediate Results: A Model for Success

The response was remarkable: within a month, 30 new residents enrolled and took over 70 trips, signaling strong demand and validating the changes. These results show that with the right adjustments, communities can quickly see increased engagement and improved quality of life for their residents.

“By listening to our residents and making thoughtful changes—like increasing the number of subsidized rides, raising the trip subsidy, and lowering the deposit—we saw participation in the program surge almost overnight. Thanks to these adjustments by our Director of Transportation, James Bonanno, we’ve shown that when we respond directly to community needs, we can truly make a difference in people’s lives.” – Mayor John Moor

Why Your Community Should Consider EZ Ryde4Life

Next Steps: Bring EZ Ryde4Life to Your Town

Don’t let transportation barriers hold your residents back. Join the growing number of communities empowering older adults and income-eligible residents with affordable, flexible mobility solutions.

For more information on how to launch a pilot or customize the program for your municipality, contact EZ Ride at [email protected] or 201-939-4242 ext. 131.

 

June 2025

Plainsboro has emerged as a regional leader in supporting electric vehicle (EV) adoption and charging infrastructure, setting a strong example for communities across New Jersey. The township’s proactive approach has earned it gold level Electric Vehicle Adoption Leadership (EVAL) certifications for the Municipal Complex and the Department of Public Works (DPW), as well as a silver award for the Plainsboro Preserve.

Through a strategic partnership with EV Connect, Plainsboro installed six Level 2 EV charging stations behind the Recreation and Cultural Center. These stations are available for public use, making EV ownership more accessible and convenient for residents and visitors alike. Notably, the project was fully funded by grants—including a significant contribution from Electrify America—demonstrating Plainsboro’s ability to leverage external resources to advance its sustainability goals while minimizing the financial burden on taxpayers.

Plainsboro’s commitment extends beyond infrastructure. The township adopted a forward-thinking ordinance that encourages the safe and efficient installation of EV charging equipment and “make-ready” parking spaces. This policy not only aligns with New Jersey state law but also supports the broader goal of reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

“We are pleased to be gold certified by EVAL. We are committed to sustainability and the use of EVs,” said Anthony Cancro, Township Administrator, Township of Plainsboro.

By leveraging partnerships, adopting progressive policies, and securing critical grant funding, Plainsboro is positioning itself as a model for municipal EV adoption and infrastructure development—proving that local action can have a powerful impact on the transition to clean transportation.

Ready to start your EV journey?

Email us at [email protected] or call (201) 939-4242, Option 6.

 

May 2025

May is National Bike Month, and we are pleased to highlight two outstanding community initiatives: the Montclair Bike Bus and the SOMA Bike Bus. These programs, led by dedicated parents and supported by their school districts and local municipalities, occasionally receive police escorts to ensure student safety.

What is a Bike Bus

A bike bus or a bike train is a parent or adult-led group ride that follows a scheduled route to school. It offers a fun, healthy, and safe alternative to the traditional car drop-off line, with benefits that extend well beyond the ride.

Why Bike Buses Matter:

Launched in 2022 by a small group of parents, the Montclair Bike Bus set out to make biking to school safer and more accessible. Today, the program includes students from 10 of Montclair’s 11 schools, with up to 300 children biking to school on Fridays. Parent volunteers lead each ride, with participation ranging from 5 to 30 students per school.

Inspired by Montclair’s success, parents in South Orange and Maplewood launched the SOMA Bike Bus in 2024. This program currently involves 50 student riders from five schools, and interest is growing throughout the district.

These programs are more than just a way to get to school, they’re a catalyst for creating a more sustainable and bike-friendly transportation culture. SOMA is working with local officials to advocate for bike lanes and street redesigns to reduce speeding. The community has also launched the SOMA Bike Drive to collect and distribute bicycles, making it possible for more students to participate. Colorful lawn signs promote the SOMA Bike Bus, with proceeds funding reflective safety vests for the volunteer “drivers” and other costs.

“Riding bikes together to school is so much fun, and it’s safer for our kids to ride in a group with other students and parents. It’s a great way to bring the community together”. Martin Ceperley, volunteer bike bus driver.

Bike buses help schools earn points towards the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Recognition Program and access SRTS infrastructure improvement grants. For example, in 2022, the Township of Maplewood received a $488,000 SRTS grant to improve pedestrian signals near schools—a direct result of the district’s commitment to biking and walking safety.

EZ Ride can provide bike bus training materials and refurbished bikes for students.

For more information, please email [email protected] or call (201) 939-4242, option 3.

Upcoming Events: 

May 2025

Beginning June 9, 2025, the Rutherford-Lyndhurst Shuttle will begin serving the newly opened Lyndhurst Station on NJ TRANSIT’s Main Line. Located at 366 Court Avenue, near Delafield Avenue, the new station—just east of the existing facility—is fully ADA-accessible and features high-level platforms, elevators, stairs, and protective canopies to enhance passenger safety and convenience.

Train service will transition to the new Lyndhurst Station on June 8, 2025, in coordination with NJ TRANSIT’s updated rail schedules. On that date, Kingsland Station will permanently close, and trains will no longer stop there. Riders should begin using the new Lyndhurst Station for all train connections.

To support a smooth transition, the EZ Ride Shuttle will continue to serve Kingsland Station. This allows passengers arriving on NJ TRANSIT Bus #76 to connect to the train service at the new Lyndhurst Station. The shuttle stop at the Lyndhurst station is located near the intersection of Delafield and Court Avenues.

The shuttle service is open to the public. Passengers must present a valid bus ticket to ride.

For current shuttle schedules, please visit the Rutherford-Lyndhurst Shuttle Schedule page on our website or email [email protected].

 

On November 21, 2024, a tragic incident occurred on Cedar Lane near Lincoln Place in Teaneck, when a 70-year-old woman was fatally struck in a hit-and-run. Although the driver was later apprehended, the loss deeply affected the community and highlighted the urgent need for improved pedestrian safety.

Launching the Street Smart NJ Safety Campaign

In response, on April 23, 2025, the Township launched a Street Smart NJ Safety Campaign, with support from the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) and EZ Ride. This initiative aimed to raise awareness of pedestrian and motorist laws, and to foster safer behaviors for everyone in the community.

“The safety of every pedestrian in our Teaneck community is not just a priority – it’s a responsibility we all share,” said Teaneck Mayor Mark Schwartz. “We are committed to implementing stronger safety measures, improving walkability, and raising awareness to ensure our streets are accessible and welcoming for all. Together, we are building a culture where every step taken on our streets is a safe one.”

Focus Areas and Community Engagement

The campaign focused on the area around 501 Cedar Lane, near Teaneck Cinema and other downtown businesses. This marks the eighteenth Street Smart campaign led by EZ Ride since 2017.

In addition to traditional education, observation, and enforcement activities, EZ Ride will:

A Call to Action for All Communities

We commend the Township of Teaneck for taking proactive steps to improve pedestrian safety. We encourage other communities to consider launching similar campaigns to help prevent future tragedies.

For more information about the Teaneck campaign or to learn how to bring a Street Smart campaign to your community, please email [email protected] or call (201) 939-4242, option 3.

In honor of Older Americans Month, the Garfield Board of Education is dedicating its upcoming Boilermaker Stride Walkathon on May 31 to raising funds that will enhance the quality of life for older adults and low-income residents in Garfield. This special initiative aims to support accessible, affordable transportation services—helping seniors stay connected, active, and independent.

Under the leadership of Dr. Richard Tomko, Superintendent of the Garfield School District and EZ Ride board member, this year’s event has been renamed the EZ Ride Boilermaker Stride. This community-driven effort focuses on raising funds to provide rides for older adults in the community.

The walkathon will bring together students, educators, families, and community leaders in a powerful show of solidarity and compassion. Together, we will take meaningful steps toward building a more inclusive and supportive community for all.

Event Details:

All funds raised will be used to provide essential, low-cost transportation options for low-income, older adults in Garfield. Your participation ensures that no one is left behind due to transportation barriers.

Whether you walk, volunteer, donate, or cheer from the sidelines, your support strengthens our community. Join us in celebrating the Garfield Board of Education’s vision and help drive real change in the lives of those who need it most. Together, let’s take meaningful steps toward a more mobile and inclusive future! If you can’t join us in person, you can still make a big impact—donate and help drive change.

For more information about the event or the EZRyde4Life Fundraising Program, please contact Kinga Skora at (201) 939-4242 ext. 131 or [email protected].

Register to Attend