NJ TRANSIT finds bus, trains, railcars breaking down more often
Reliability is measured by mean distance between failures, which is the average mileage that the agency's rail and bus fleets travel before breaking down. The more miles traveled indicates that the fleet is more reliable.


NEWARK, N.J. — Statistics compiled by NJ TRANSIT found that the train, bus and light rail fleet are traveling fewer miles than just two years ago before breaking down, resulting in delays for commuters and snarled traffic when buses are disabled, NJ Advance Media reports.
NJ TRANSIT’s bus fleet traveled 11,668 miles between breakdowns so far this year, a decline from 12,325 miles in 2015 and from 12,525 miles in 2014. Meanwhile, trains hit a high of 120,591 miles between breakdowns in October 2012. That number slid to 103,813 miles in October 2013 and further to 87,750 in October 2014. The fleet saw some improvement, finishing 2015 with 89,655 miles traveled between failures, according NJ TRANSIT’s statistics.
Reliability is measured by mean distance between failures, which is the average mileage that NJ TRANSIT's rail and bus fleets travel before breaking down. The more miles traveled indicates that the fleet is more reliable. For the full story, click here.
More Management

Turn Transit Data Into Action
Discover how leading agencies are using connected technology to gain real-time visibility across operations, improve service reliability, and reduce disruptions.
Read More →
What Transit-Oriented Development Means for the Future of Public Transportation
Once viewed primarily as transit operators, agencies are now leveraging land, partnerships, and long-term planning to boost ridership, expand housing, and strengthen communities.
Read More →
USDOT Announces $22 Million for Transit Innovation, Updates High-Speed Rail Rules
New federal transit funding will support safety, accessibility, and technology projects as updated rail regulations establish new noise standards for high-speed trains.
Read More →
Transportation Construction Coalition Unveils Infrastructure Case Studies Ahead of Federal Funding Deadline
The coalition noted the next surface transportation bill should provide sustained investment in highways and public transit to strengthen freight movement, improve safety, and support economic growth.
Read More →
People Movement: American Bus Association Extends Ferguson and More
METRO’s People Movement highlights the latest leadership changes, promotions, and personnel news across the public transit, motorcoach, and people mobility sectors.
Read More →
METRO Magazine Announces 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards Winners
Projects Recognized for Advancing Mobility Through Technology, Accessibility, Workforce Innovation, and Operational Excellence
Read More →
MBTA Rolls Out Pilot Programs to Cut Costs, Simplify Travel
Three new fare pilots — including unlimited two-hour transfers, reduced express bus fares, and free transit for eligible seniors — will launch this fall as Massachusetts extends popular commuter rail discounts through November.
Read More →
FTA Opens $610 Million Funding Opportunity for Bus Infrastructure Projects
The latest Notice of Funding Opportunity provides transit agencies with funding for bus facilities, fleet modernization, and low- and no-emission vehicles, with applications due September 21.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
Massachusetts Approves $530M to Strengthen MBTA Operations, Infrastructure
The funding package targets operating stability, capital improvements, and fare affordability, offering a model for agencies navigating long-term funding challenges.
Read More →