Ridership on the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail line, which now operates between Bayonne and Hoboken, has been steadily rising since it opened in 2000, according to NJ Transit. Ridership increased markedly after the major disruption to the PATH system beginning on Sept. 11, 2001 and when the line was extended from its initial northern terminus in Jersey City to Hoboken.

Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Riders

Source: NJ Transit

During the immediate post 9-11 period, ridership spiked to a record daily level of 18,000 (fare collection was suspended for a time).

Recent news reports have said NJ Transit expects daily ridership to increase to 28,000 after the 6-mile link between Weehawken and North Bergen is completed in five years. The Journal News reported that 31% of the light rail’s riders had previously driven — perhaps to ferry terminals or PATH stations — indicating the line has been successful is getting traffic off of northern NJ’s congested roadways. It has also been a boon to development and housing on Jersey City’s waterfront.

NJ officials said last week that they would soon announce a date for the start of service for the state’s second light rail line, between Camden and Trenton. The project has been roundly criticized as an overly intensive investment for a low-density corridor. The $1 billion system will run 34 miles, serving 20 stations. It is projected to serve about 6,000 riders per day. If it lives up to its most positive billing, it will encourage investment and growth in towns along the Delaware River, eventually building an even larger customer base.

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