Legislation to remedy problems surrounding overcrowded parking at NJ Transit train stations was approved 51-24-1 by the Assembly on Monday and now heads to the Governor’s desk. The bill, sponsored by Assembly Democrats Reed Gusciora, Bonnie Watson Coleman and Connie Wagner would make clear that a vacant permit parking space at train stations operated by NJ Transit is available for general public use during off-peak times.

“In many cases, the NJ Transit lots are largely reserved for permit parking by daily commuters and that’s understandable, but there’s no reason why these spots shouldn’t be open for general public use during nights and weekends,” said Gusciora (D-Mercer). “Often times, the spots reserved for daily use are filled during off-peak times while the permit area is a vast sea of unused parking spots. That’s no way to encourage use of mass transit.”

The bill defines off-peak times as the hours from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. during the weekdays, and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

“In many cases, during off-peak times non-permit areas are at full capacity while the permit parking areas remain empty,” said Watson Coleman (D-Mercer). “As a result, individuals who do not have parking permits are forced to park in permit-only parking areas and thus, they receive a citation. Let’s face it – that’s unfair. This bill is a simple and commonsense fix.”

“We should be promoting mass transit use, not discouraging it through parking tickets and a lack of available parking spaces,” said Wagner (D-Bergen). “This bill is long past due for the many New Jerseyans who have been frustrated when trying to use mass transit. It’s a great step forward.” TLS.