By Andrew Steadman/ The Jersey Journal
A bus company notified the City of Bayonne it would be discontinuing its service on John F. Kennedy Blvd., but Mayor Mark Smith aims to prevent that from happening.
According to the press release, Trans-Hudson Express, Inc., notified the city via a hand-delivered letter yesterday that it intends to cease operation of the No. 10 Boulevard Bus on April 8. Smith, who said the notice did not conform to state law, announced he had demanded the company continue service on the route until an agreement can be reached.
The route, which runs between Journal Square in Jersey City and W. 3rd St. in Bayonne, has been covered by the company under the name Red & Tan Tours.
“Many Bayonne people depend on this bus route to get to work or to school at Bayonne High School, Marist, and Holy Family Academy,” said Smith. “Red and Tan’s decision to suddenly and deliberately cease operations without adequate advance notice is unprofessional and disrespectful to the people who have been their customers for many years.”
Smith sent a letter to the company’s counsel demanding they continue operations, and also sent letters to Bayonne’s federal congressional representatives, DOT Secretary Ray LaHood, and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator Anne Ferro.
According to the press release, the city is working with New Jersey Transit and Assemblyman Jason O’Donnell to develop alternatives to Red & Tan Tours.