New Jersey Future Urges Action Following Governor Murphy’s Budget Address

TRENTON, February 25, 2025—Governor Phil Murphy’s final budget address outlined key financial priorities for the coming fiscal year. While New Jersey Future applauds investments in transit, we urge further action to ensure long-term sustainability and equity.

“We appreciate the Governor’s commitment to funding NJ Transit with $815 million from the Corporate Transit Fee, ensuring safer, more reliable, and climate-friendly transportation, and we absolutely appreciate the modernization of New Jersey’s transit system,” said Chris Sturm, Land Use Policy Director.

Peter Kasabach, Executive Director, highlighted the Governor’s emphasis on fiscal responsibility: “His approach to pension payments underscores the importance of investing today to avoid greater costs tomorrow. This principle must also apply to water infrastructure, climate resilience, and land use planning.”

New Jersey Future also supports proposed zoning and permitting reforms to expand housing options. “These changes can make our communities more affordable, shorten commutes, and strengthen local economies,” Sturm added.

However, concerns remain about funding gaps. Sabrina Rodriguez-Vicenty, Advocacy and Government Affairs Manager, noted, “While the budget includes $500,000 for Revolutionary War sites, it lacks the up to $7 million needed to complete Capital Park—a project vital to Trenton’s historic legacy and economic revitalization.”

Kasabach concluded, “We support the Governor’s vision of New Jersey as a place ‘where big ideas come to life.’ To achieve this, we must fully fund infrastructure, climate adaptation, housing, and Capital Park.”