SOMA Survey On NJ Transit Delays Draws Huge Response

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — There are times when a thoughtful complaint can make a positive difference in the world. And officials in South Orange and Maplewood (SOMA) are hoping that their NJ Transit commuter survey is one of them.

Earlier this week, following a nightmarish Friday and Monday that included dozens of NJ Transit train cancellations, South Orange and Maplewood’s mayors announced that the townships are seeking feedback from local commuters who depend on train service to make it to work, school or other crucial destinations.

In the 30 hours since being launched, the survey has elicited more than 550 responses, according to South Orange Village President Sheena Collum.

Collum posted a social media message about the survey on Aug. 5:

“Please complete the following survey as soon as possible regarding your experience during the MONTH OF JULY (repeat - during the month of July 2018). This is limited to those who use South Orange or Maplewood as their station of origin. The information contained will enable the South Orange Board of Trustees and Maplewood Township Committee to better advocate for our NJ TRANSIT riders. Your personal information will not be shared. The survey takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. Don't just vent online, help us help you. Oh, and please don't exaggerate - we need good data. Complete and share this survey with every SOMA commuter you know.”

Collum’s post was shared by Maplewood Mayor Victor DeLuca.

• Take the survey here.

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