SENATE ECONOMIC GROWTH COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

SENATE, No. 2483

with committee amendments

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  JUNE 17, 2019

      The Senate Economic Growth Committee reports favorably and with committee amendments Senate Bill No. 2483.

      As amended and reported, this bill establishes the "New Jersey Transit Villages Act" for the purpose of encouraging certain municipalities to begin influencing land use patterns, densities, the general character of their communities, and the overall quality of life for their residents.  The bill is intended to promote communities that are pedestrian friendly and within close proximity to public transit systems that have been the focus of major public investment.

      The bill directs transportation investments into the redevelopment of older urban and suburban areas around transit hubs.  The bill also seeks to increase transportation options and transit availability.

      In 1999, the New Jersey Department of Transportation, in conjunction with New Jersey Transit Corporation, created the Transit Village Initiative to further “smart growth” objectives.  There are currently 17 designated Transit Villages in the State.  Transit Village Initiative funding comes from a dedicated federal source.  There is no money currently allocated to the Transit Village Initiative from the Transportation Trust Fund Account.  Under the bill, other State agencies may provide assistance to Transit Villages, including technical assistance, favorable changes in regulations, and expedited permits, but do not direct funding to the initiative.  This bill formalizes the Transit Village Initiative and permits State funding to be used to further the goals of the Transit Village Initiative.

      The committee amended the bill to update an underlying section of law so that it reflects recent amendments to that law.