NJ Transit is testing new high-tech bus stop signs that feature real-time arrival information of the next bus. The program will showcase two companies’ technology at eight different bus stops. The companies both submitted their ideas through the Transit Tech Lab, which is backed by the Partnership Fund for New York City and provides easier access for early to growth-stage companies to solve public transportation issues across the country.
“Partnering with emerging tech companies allows us to test solutions that directly enhance the customer experience—in this case by improving access to important customer information,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri. “These digital signs not only provide real-time updates to riders at bus stops, but also supply NJ TRANSIT with valuable data to help us plan more responsive and customer-focused technology solutions.”
NJ Transit has already installed five signs from infrastructure provider BusPas at several locations throughout Hudson County. The signs include real-time customer information, such as arrivals, detours, delays, service alerts and bus occupancy levels. The signs are solar-powered and employ e-paper displays.
“At NJ TRANSIT, innovation means reimagining how infrastructure, data, and emerging technologies come together to shape the future of public transportation,” said Luna Katbah, Head of Innovation at NJ TRANSIT. “This pilot is an important step toward building a more connected, intelligent transit ecosystem — one where real-time information, adaptive systems, and smart infrastructure work seamlessly to anticipate rider needs and evolve with our communities.”
A similar operation is taking place at Manalapan Township and Howell Township in Monmouth County. It was made possible through a collaboration with Urban Solar, a manufacturer of solar energy systems for bus stops and shelters.
The signs also provide NJ Transit with AI-driven customer analytics, including people-counting, occupancy detection and demand modeling, which aids in future plans. A key feature is leave-behind detection, which counts how many customers are unable to board due to occupancy issues or schedule constraints. The tool helps NJ Transit calculate where resources could be best allocated.
The signs have been installed at the following locations listed below.
Hoboken
- 15th & Willow
- 9th & Washington
Union City
- 31st & Bergen
- 31st at JFK
Jersey City
- Congress St. at Palisade Ave.
Manalapan Township
- Route-9 North at Gordon’s Corner Rd.
Howell Township
- Aldrich Rd. Park and Ride
The initiative brings innovation to NJ Transit that is beneficial to both commuters and the organization itself. The new data can be used to help craft a better travel experience for customers in the Garden State.