Time for some free tolls to compensate for traffic problems...

In light of all of the recent stories, apologies, lawsuits and investigations arising out of the GW BridgeGate Scandal, a very easy way to make reparations to NJ commuters who use the Bridge would be to offer free car tolls and free bus service over the Bridge for a week.  Of course, this should be done without any additional taxpayer expense.  It is this blog's opinion that free tolls speak louder than words.

Maplewood Equipment Route 45

This is Maplewood Equipment's Route 45 from 1981.  It ran between Midland Park, Ridgewood, Hackensack and the George Washington Bridge Bus Terminal.  Much of this route is today's NJT Route 175. 

Red and Tan Lines Route 25 (1959)

Here is a 1959 Red and Tan Schedule for Route 25 between New Milford and Washington Heights.  It was operated by Hill Bus Company, a predecessor to Rockland Coaches.  A schedule from 1981 for the same route is posted here.  This service still exists today as part of the 11C, which was taken over by Saddle River Tours on May 5, 2014 after Rockland Coaches dropped the route.

Public Service Route 80 Hasbrouck Heights - New York (1971)

This is the old Route 80 from the GWB Terminal to Hasbrouck Heights.  Service over the GWB  was discontinued in the 1980's and rerouted between Passaic and Englewood as the B-80.  The service remains today as NJT's Route 780.

George Washington Bridge Bus Station Renovation

The Bergen Record is reporting that the long delayed renovation to the GWB Bus Terminal is set to begin and will take about two years to complete.  Bus service to the terminal has been decreasing dramatically over the years.  It remains to be seen whether the renovations will lead to increased ridership and service.   

Red and Tan Lines/Rockland Coaches Route 84 (1983)

 

Here is a Red and Tan Route 84 Schedule from 1983. Red and Tan has been cutting back this route dramatically over the last few years. They currently are only running a handful of rush hour buses combined with the 20 line. Saddle River Tours took over the 20/84 line on May 5, 2014 after Rockland Coaches dropped the route.  Interestingly, the last run of the night back in 1983 was also a combined 84/20 run to the Rockland Psychiatric Center.