$11.7 Million in Grants to Boost Pedestrian Safety Across New Jersey

21 Communities to Benefit from State Funding Aimed at Improving Walkability to Transit Facilities

NEW JERSEY – In a significant stride toward enhancing pedestrian safety and promoting sustainable transportation, Governor Phil Murphy today announced the allocation of $11.7 million in Fiscal Year 2025 Safe Streets to Transit Program (SSTT) grants. The funding will support 21 projects across 10 counties in New Jersey, aiming to improve the safety and accessibility of mass transit riders who walk to transit facilities.

The Safe Streets to Transit program is a pivotal component of New Jersey's broader pedestrian safety initiatives, funded through the State Transportation Trust Fund (TTF). By focusing on the areas within a one-mile radius of transit facilities or stations, the program encourages residents to choose walking as a viable and safe option for reaching public transportation hubs.

A Boost in Funding

Traditionally, the SSTT program provides $1 million in grants annually. However, recognizing the critical need for enhanced pedestrian infrastructure, this year the program received a substantial increase in funding. An additional $16 million was appropriated for Grants-in-Aid, specifically for the Safe Streets to Transit Program, Bicycle & Pedestrian Facilities/Accommodations, and the Transit Village Program. Of this amount, $9.3 million was allocated to the SSTT program. Moreover, an extra $1.4 million appropriated for Pedestrian Safety Grants was applied to the SSTT program. Combined with the usual $1 million, the total funding for FY25 reaches an impressive $11.7 million.

“Mass transit is a critical component in moving New Jerseyans efficiently throughout our state and region, and it is critical that we prioritize their safety throughout the entire travel experience,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “The Safe Streets to Transit Program promotes the use of public transit by empowering communities to make necessary infrastructure improvements so that our residents can travel to and from transit facilities easily and safely.”

Projects were awarded on a competitive basis, taking into consideration several key factors:

• Proximity to Transit Facilities: Prioritizing areas within a one-mile radius of transit stations to maximize the impact on commuters.
• Safety and Accessibility: Focusing on improvements that directly enhance pedestrian safety, such as better lighting, signage, crosswalks, and traffic calming measures.
• Project Need: Assessing the current conditions and identifying areas where improvements are most urgently required.
• Equity Criteria: Ensuring that low-income and minority populations benefit from the enhancements, promoting social equity in transportation infrastructure.

Communities Set to Benefit

The 21 municipalities receiving the grants span across 10 counties, reflecting a statewide commitment to pedestrian safety. Some of the notable projects include:

• Newark, Essex County: Upgrading pedestrian pathways and crosswalks near major transit hubs to improve safety for daily commuters.
• Jersey City, Hudson County: Implementing traffic calming measures and enhancing lighting around busy bus and light rail stations.
• Camden, Camden County: Revitalizing sidewalks and adding pedestrian signals near transit facilities to create safer routes for residents.

For a full list of the municipalities and detailed project descriptions, click here.

A Win for Local Governments and Taxpayers

The Safe Streets to Transit Program, along with other state-funded Local Aid grant programs, provides significant benefits to residents by enabling local governments to undertake necessary projects without burdening local taxpayers. By tapping into state resources, municipalities can address critical infrastructure needs that might otherwise be deferred due to budget constraints.

“Nothing is more important to me than the safety of our transportation system for all users, particularly those who are most vulnerable – pedestrians and the mobility impaired,” NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor said. “I appreciate Governor Murphy and the Legislature’s commitment to the Safe Routes to Transit Program by making additional funds available so more communities can improve sidewalks and provide safe and convenient crosswalks near bus and rail stations.”

By improving the walkability of transit stations, the SSTT program supports New Jersey's goals of reducing traffic congestion and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Encouraging more residents to walk or use public transportation contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation network. Environmental groups have applauded the increased funding. 

Residents in the awarded municipalities can look forward to safer streets, improved accessibility, and enhanced quality of life. Projects may include the installation of new sidewalks, pedestrian bridges, improved signage, better street lighting, and the implementation of traffic calming measures.

As New Jersey continues to invest in pedestrian infrastructure, the state sets a positive example for balancing modern transportation needs with community well-being. The significant increase in funding for the SSTT program underscores the administration's dedication to these priorities.

How the Projects Were Selected

The competitive selection process ensures that funds are allocated to projects that will have the most substantial impact. Municipalities submitted proposals detailing their plans to improve pedestrian access and safety near transit facilities. Each proposal was evaluated based on the established criteria, with an emphasis on addressing the needs of underserved communities.

Transportation experts and planners assessed the potential effectiveness of each project, considering factors such as current pedestrian traffic volumes, accident history, and community support.

Community involvement is a key component of successful infrastructure projects. Municipalities are encouraged to engage with residents throughout the planning and implementation stages. Public meetings, workshops, and forums provide opportunities for community members to offer input, express concerns, and stay informed about project progress.

Timeline and Next Steps

With funding secured, municipalities will move forward with detailed planning and begin the process of selecting contractors. Construction timelines will vary depending on the scope and complexity of each project, but residents can expect to see work commencing in the coming months.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation will oversee the projects to ensure compliance with state regulations and that the improvements meet the intended goals.

Governor Murphy's announcement of the $11.7 million in Safe Streets to Transit grants marks a significant investment in New Jersey's infrastructure and the well-being of its residents. By focusing on pedestrian safety and accessibility, the state is taking proactive steps to foster healthier, more connected communities.

As these projects come to fruition, thousands of New Jerseyans will benefit from safer routes to transit facilities, promoting a shift toward more sustainable transportation choices and enhancing the overall quality of life.

For More Information

Residents interested in learning more about the specific projects in their communities can visit the New Jersey Department of Transportation's website or contact their local municipal offices.

Stay tuned for updates on these projects and how they will transform the landscape of pedestrian transit in New Jersey.