The jitney began service March 17, and within two weeks, daily ridership was averaging between 40 to 60 during the five morning runs and 30 to 40 total during five evening runs. "Ridership has been more than we anticipated in such a short period of time," said Town Engineer Bill Kowalski. "Several people already have requested we expand service to additional routes."

The jitney was started on a shoe-string. Where NJ Transit refuses to invest, and NJ DOT is busy widening highways, the International Council on Local Environmental Initiatives -- a Canada-based non-profit -- sprang for a $16,000 grant, and the town borrowed its senior citizens' shuttle during its off-hours. Maplewood has stood firm against NJ Transit proposals to build large new parking facilities in towns along the Morris and Essex Line. The line has seen a ridership boom since the advent last summer of direct service to Manhattan.

Congressman William Pascrell Jr. was on hand March 25 to watch the arrival of the 8 a.m. jitney. "Not only is this jitney good transportation policy, but it is a victory for the community in myriad other ways. There will be less traffic, less pollution and Maplewood will be looked upon as an even better place to live."

Despite a NJ Transit staffer's prediction that the jitney would attract only 10 riders a day, the numbers speak for themselves. Mayor Ellen Davenport feels a sense of victory, but credits the volunteers who spearheaded the project. Among them is Barbara Novak, one of the first residents to oppose parking expansion. Novak expressed "guarded optimism" regarding the jitney's early success, but knows more remains to be done.

"We need more funding. We really need three jitney routes to service this town. And almost 50 percent of Maplewood's commuters walk to the station today. If we improved walkway safety and added bike paths, that percentage could be increased even more."

The town is now compiling daily data in order to consider service adjustments. Additional routes are among the changes to be evaluated.