Since DeCamp Bus stopped running commuter bus service in 2023, tens of thousands of Essex County residents have been navigating a transit desert. Replacement service is rush hour only and does not include all the areas formerly served by DeCamp Bus.

We encourage you to contact your local New Jersey representatives to educate them about the need for this service and express your support. You can find your local New Jersey representative here and either call or email.

Email Script

Dear [Senator/Assemblymember],

I am writing as a resident of [Your Town] to express my concern about the lack of reliable bus service in our communities and to urge stronger investment in expanded bus service in the region.

Three years ago, when DeCamp Bus ended its commuter service, thousands of residents in Montclair, Bloomfield, Glen Ridge, Belleville, Nutley, Verona, The Caldwells, and surrounding towns lost a key transportation option. While some replacement routes have been introduced, many of the services that currently exist operate primarily during rush hour and do not provide the kind of all-day, seven-day mobility that residents need.

Transportation is not only about commuting to work. It is also about getting to medical appointments, schools, grocery stores, cultural destinations, and visiting friends and family. Limited schedules make it difficult for many residents, especially seniors, students, and those without access to a car, to rely on transit as a dependable way to move around our region.

Investing in stronger bus service would bring significant benefits to Essex County and New Jersey as a whole. Buses are one of the most cost-effective transportation investments available. Expanding service frequency and hours can move large numbers of people efficiently, reduce traffic congestion on already crowded roads, and provide a lower-carbon alternative to driving. Improved bus service also supports local businesses by making it easier for customers and workers to travel within and between our communities.

Essex County is one of the most densely populated regions in the state, and there is clear demand for better transit options. Restoring and expanding bus service would help fill a gap that has existed since DeCamp ceased operations.

I encourage you to work with NJ Transit and other stakeholders to prioritize investment in expanded bus service for Essex County residents.

Thank you for your time and for your continued service to our community.

Sincerely,
[Name]
[Town]

Phone Call Script

“Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m calling to urge the Legislature and Governor to include funding the FY26-27 budget for critical transit improvements through New Jersey Transit.

I live in (Town) and restoration of seven-day bus service is critical need for our community due to the lost DeCamp Routes 33, 44, 66, and 88 nearly three years ago. When DeCamp shut down, riders were left in transit deserts, and many are still struggling to get to work, school, and essential services.
Reliable weekend transit supports working families, students, transit-dependent riders, and anyone whose schedule doesn’t fit a traditional Monday-through-Friday job. Please prioritize funding to restore and expand these services. Thank you for your time and attention.”