Data In The Cloud Allows For A Resourceful Public Transit System On The Ground

In last few years NJ TRANSIT has drastically changed its data analysis capabilities by investing in “…a world-class cloud-based platform that can offer up whatever analysts want…”. The shift from traditional Information Technology infrastructure to a cloud-based platform allows the agency to pinpoint factors that slow services such as, predicting the impacts of imminent weather events, and identifying accident-prone areas. This can be seen in the “NJ TRANSIT Friendly Data Application” which allows users to model the possible economic, social, and environmental impacts of placing new public transit stations along an existing or new line. Furthermore, this is just one of the many features this single online application offers. See the recent press release on the NJ TRANSIT Friendly Data Application here. Image credit - NJ TRANSIT Friendly Data Application

Legislation Seeks To Make New Jersey A One License Plate State

Senate Bill 2355/Assembly Bill 4288), currently under consideration by the New Jersey Senate and State Assembly committees, amends requirements for the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) issuing of vehicle license plates. The bill proposes that the NJMVC only issue one license plate instead of the current issuance of two plates for most vehicles. The change could lower the costs of vehicle registration by reducing plate production and system management costs. The change could also affect the ability to identify vehicles involved in roadway incidents, such as a hit and run crash. The Monmouth County Transportation Council discussed possible advantages and disadvantages of the proposed legislation at its September 13, 2022 meeting.

“ChargeUp New Jersey” May Help You Decide Which Electric Vehicle Has The Best Purchase Discount.

On July 25, 2022, the ChargeUp New Jersey Vehicle Point-of-Sale Incentive was renewed for a third year. The program provides discounts for eligible Battery Electric and Hybrid Vehicles purchased at qualified dealerships in the State. The program website details the rebate ranges for several electric vehicle makes and models as well as electric vehicle charger discounts, which are a first for the program. Image credit - Canva

The NJ Safe Passing Law: Have You Heard Of It?

As of March 1, 2022, New Jersey law requires motorists to safely pass pedestrians and bicyclists with at least four feet of distance or by traveling under 25 miles per hour under certain conditions. It came in response to a significant increase in bicycle and pedestrian deaths in New Jersey in 2020. For a summary of what the law aims to do and the new guidelines drivers must follow, visit this webpage published by the New Jersey Bike and Walk Coalition. As bicycle and pedestrian deaths continue to occur, it is important to advocate for safe streets for all road users. The New Jersey Bike and Walk Coalition has also developed social media materials that you can post to inform your neighbors, friends, and local communities of safe driving practices.

National Crash Responder Safety Week: November 14-18, 2022

November 14-18 is a time to recognize roadside responders to traffic incidents who strive to make our roads safer to travel on. Public Works departments, law enforcement officers, Emergency Medical Services, and towing operators respond to roadway incidents daily. They work along active travel lanes and educate the public on safe driving practices through social media initiatives and online trainings. The Monmouth County Transportation Council thanks our local Crash Responders for their service. Additional information on the weeklong event can be found on the program website.

Go Further! - More Outlets That Offer Transportation News/Information

Transport Topics - National Publication

Transport Topics is a digital and print trade publication which “seeks to provide the information that will empower good decision making” in the North American transportation field. The Washington D.C. based publication focuses on detailed analysis and reporting of various industry topics. If you are interested in national transportation news you can visit their website and sign up for their free newsletter or their weekly digital/print editions.

Upcoming Events

• Monmouth County Transportation Council Meeting: October 11 at 7 p.m. to be held in person with a virtual option. Click here to find the meeting info.

1/5 Of New Jerseyans Work From Home

New Jersey is one of the few states in the nation where more than one fifth of workers telecommute rather than commute to a workplace. In 2021, approximately 22% of New Jersey residents worked from home compared to only 5% doing so in 2019. This shift will have a significant impact on our current and future transportation infrastructure. In the short term, less roadway congestion means fewer maintenance costs on infrastructure. However, the current loss of revenues from tolls or public transit fares could lead to a funding shortfall for future upkeep of infrastructure as the State’s population continues to grow. Additional data from the American Community Survey shows in 2019 79% commuted by car, when in 2021 only 67% did so. Public transportation had a more significant reduction from 12%  in 2019, compared to 6% in 2021. Ultimately factors of the job market will be the one to steady commuting practices in the long term.

Did You Know? 

More Cars Now Take Premium Fuel For Their More Energy Efficient Engines

Between 2012 and 2018, there was a 13% increase in the share of light duty vehicles, i.e. passenger cars, on American roads with Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) that require high octane gasoline. Only 16% of cars sold in the 2012 model year required high octane gasoline, compared to 29% of the 2018 model year. This increase is due to manufacturers using smaller high-output engines which have higher compression ratios and include turbocharging features that require this type of fuel. This has been beneficial as ICE vehicles with smaller engines achieve greater fuel efficiency and performance. While the price at the pump may be higher for high octane gasoline, you may travel further with fewer gallons in your tank. See if you benefit by confirming your manufacturer-recommended fuel for your vehicle which may be found in your vehicle owner’s manual, the manufacturer's official website, or the inside of your gas tank door. Additional data and supporting information can be found here.

Participate With the Council

If you have an interest in transportation, we invite you to contact the staff advisors to the Monmouth County Transportation Council at transportation@co.monmouth.nj.us and find out about ways you can participate or volunteer with us.

Monmouth County Bridge and Road Projects

Monmouth County is working hard to maintain and upgrade key roadway and bridge infrastructure throughout the County. Learn which projects are under construction, review, or consideration, as well as how to get involved, on the Monmouth County webpage.