I truly love how NJ Transit wants to raise fares and reduce LightRail and bus trips, but then I get replies like this about seeing how people on the LightRail take other people's tickets after they're done w. them so they don't have to actually pay for a ticket.



2008-09-29

NJ TRANSIT Customer Service to me


We are replying to your feedback of 9/28/2008 regarding subject: Ticket Control.

Thank you for contacting NJ Transit regarding the Proof of Payment system using our Light Rail System.

The goal of our transportation system is to move customers to and from their destinations in a safe and efficient manner, at a reasonable price without blocking the flow of passengers through the system. The Proof-of-Payment (POP) system offers a way for passengers to board quickly without the inconvenience of having to stop at a fare box or wait in long lines to present a ticket prior to boarding. With this system, customers have the option of purchasing single or multiple tickets, or a monthly pass, from the ticket vending machines (TVMs) by cash, credit card or ATM card. The customer need only validate one ticket at a time for presentation to a fare enforcement officer. Monthly passes require no validation and are valid for unlimited rides throughout the calendar month.

NJ TRANSIT has an obligation to ensure that revenue is collected on all services to support operating and maintenance expenses, and to minimize our reliance on public support. Therefore, enforcement of our fare policies is a necessary responsibility of this agency.

Our fare enforcement officers are required to enforce the rules of our system and to issue warnings and summonses. These officers also receive extensive customer service training. However, these fare enforcement officers cannot be on every train during the entire day as we do not have the manpower to accomplish that task.[emphasis mine] Unfortunately, there are going to be some passengers who abuse the system and try to get away without paying the fare. This is something we do not have complete control over as we rely on the honesty of all riders.


Based on the feedback we've received from yourself and other customers, however, NJ TRANSIT is reviewing its fare enforcement policies to determine if any changes can be made.

Thank you for contacting NJ TRANSIT.

Sincerely,

Joe Pilla
NJ TRANSIT Customer Service Team