New Jersey Transit launched a pilot shuttle program on Monday that will operate in parts of the state by offering free connections to major bus stops and park rides, providing commuters a new way to access the bus network. The new program runs in partnership with Via and through $7 million in fu nding from the Federal Transit Administration, per NJ Transit. For now, the pilot program only services a small part of New Jersey: four communities in Bergen County, and two others in Monmouth. “MicroLink powered by NJ Transit is a smart, customer-focused investment that is part of building a more connected, reliable, and rider-focused NJ Transit,” New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill said. “By bringing flexible, on-demand service to communities in Monmouth and Bergen counties, and meeting people where they are, we’re making it easier than ever to access a transit system that works for riders.” In Bergen County, it will be available in the municipalities of: Bergenfield Englewood Teaneck Tenafly and in Monmouth County: Freehold Manapalan “MicroLink powered by NJ TRANSIT,” runs from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays, and is accessible through the MicroLink app, or by phone at 973-233-4047. Since it is on demand, it is recommended to book rides 20-30 minutes before your departure time. All MicroLink trips are ADA accessible, however, the service is separate from Access LINK, the dedicated paratransit service for people with disabilities under NJ Transit. The pilot program is funded to operate for two years at no cost to commuters, many of whom learned of the service on Monday. “Yeah, I’ll try it,” Marilynn Escalante said to News 4. “We’ll see when they start charging.” ...read more read less