TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Shirley K. Turner (D-Mercer) to remedy parking problems experienced by travelers at New Jersey Transit stations was approved today by the full Senate.
The bill (A-1080/S-2968) would clarify that a vacant paid permit parking space reserved for certain NJ Transit passengers is available for general public use during off-peak times. The purpose of the bill is to resolve the issue of overcrowded parking at train stations operated by NJ Transit. In many cases, during off-peak times, non-permit parking areas are full while the permit parking areas remain empty. As a result, individuals without permit parking are forced to park in permit-only parking areas and receive citations.
“It makes little sense to force people to park further and further away from the train station when dozens, if not, hundreds of spaces are empty during off-peak hours,” said Turner. “Obviously, permit holders are entitled to their spots during work hours, but spaces that are left vacant after hours, on weekends and holidays should be offered to other NJ Transit customers. This will not only ease parking problems, but making using mass transit more convenient and enticing for travelers.”
The bill would define “off-peak times” as from 5:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. during the weekdays, and all day on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
The bill now heads to Governor’s desk.