Hudson County Executive Craig Guy is applauding the Hudson County Board of Commissioners’ unanimous vote to approve $150,000 in funding for a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system study. Guy had sought the funding for the study, which will analyze the feasibility of implementing bus prioritization infrastructure to accommodate a potential BRT system along John F. Kennedy Boulevard in the City of Jersey City.
According to a press release from the County Executive’s office, “bus prioritization infrastructure is a set of street and signal tools designed to help buses move faster, more reliably, and with less delay, especially in traffic-heavy corridors like JFK Blvd. It generally includes a mix of physical changes and tech upgrades.”
The press release states that the tools may include:
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Dedicated bus lanes (full-time or peak-hour) so buses aren’t stuck in general traffic.
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Bus-only turns or curb space to avoid conflicts with cars and parking.
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Transit Signal Priority: traffic lights stay green longer or turn green sooner when a bus is approaching.
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Bus-only signals at key intersections.
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Accessible, well-designed shelters with real-time arrival info.
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Paint, signage, and red-lane treatments to clearly mark priority space.
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Integration with bike and pedestrian infrastructure to avoid conflicts.
These tools, and others, can lead to faster trips and more reliable schedules thereby lowering operating costs for NJ Transit, better rider experience (especially for workers, students, and seniors), and reduced congestion and emissions.
The County Executive states, “During my campaign for County Executive two years ago, I committed to prioritizing safer streets for pedestrians, bikers, and motorists. This included exploring the viability of Bus Rapid Transit on county roads, particularly on JFK Boulevard, so I am thrilled to see this study move forward. Hudson County residents deserve reliable and accessible public transportation and with this effort I promise to work with our partners — our municipalities, planning agencies, and advocates — to make sure our roadways are efficient and safe throughout all of the county. I also look forward to continuing the county’s partnership with NJ Transit, which will be essential in implementing the study’s findings.”
“Jersey City residents deserve public transportation that actually works—buses that show up on time and get people where they need to go. County Executive Guy’s leadership on this study is an important first step toward making that a reality on JFK Boulevard,” added Jersey City Mayor James Solomon. “Better, faster, more reliable bus service means shorter commutes for working people, less time stuck in traffic, and a more affordable way to get around our city. I look forward to working with the County, NJ Transit, and our residents to make this happen.”
The study will focus its attention on JFK Boulevard in Jersey City. The county will procure professional planning services, as well as provide in-house resources and staffing. The county intends to use available research and data through NJ Transit on ridership trends and demand analysis. The study shall include several opportunities for the public to provide feedback on road design elements such as dedicated bus lanes, other bus system accommodations, and parking. The staff’s goal is to release a final report by the end of 2026.