Gov. Phil Murphy on Wednesday announced a series of major initiatives designed to expand and modernize public transportation in southern New Jersey.

Speaking at a fireside chat hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of Southern New Jersey, Murphy detailed plans for an expanded electric bus fleet in Camden, a new express bus service connecting Vineland and Atlantic City, and a $5 million federal investment to support microtransit.

“Our administration is committed to strengthening public transportation in all corners of our state,” Murphy said. “These new transportation options in South Jersey will not only better connect residents to jobs, schools, and health care, but also lay the foundation for a stronger and more interconnected regional economy.”

New Electric Buses and Commuter Service

The state will expand its electric bus fleet in Camden with eight new buses, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri stated that the agency is committed to “fully modernizing its fleet of rail cars and buses by the year 2031,” with the expansion of the electric bus program being a critical component of that effort.

In addition, a one-year pilot program for a new express shuttle bus will launch this fall, providing two round trips each weekday between the Vineland Transportation Center and the Atlantic City Bus Terminal. This service, operated by the South Jersey Transportation Authority with NJ TRANSIT’s support, is designed to connect casino workers and other commuters from Cumberland County to employment opportunities in Atlantic City. Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small called the service a “win-win,” while Vineland Mayor Anthony Fanucci described the “long overdue” program as a positive step for his residents and the regional economy.

Investment in Microtransit

A $5 million federal investment will be used to expand microtransit options across South Jersey, particularly along “eds and meds” corridors that link residents to jobs, schools, and health care facilities.

Christina Renna, president & CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey, expressed her gratitude for the governor’s responsiveness, stating that the announcement “addresses these pressing issues directly.”

The initiative is part of the state’s broader effort to create a more interconnected public transportation system. New Jersey Economic Development Authority CEO Tim Sullivan noted that the expanded electric fleet and other initiatives are part of the state’s strategy to invest in a “clean energy future by putting more zero-emission vehicles on our roads.”