Passaic County Moves $1.90 Ride Program to Paterson

Paterson residents will soon have access to on-demand rides for $1.90 per trip under an expansion of the Passaic County MOVE microtransit program. The service, which currently operates in Clifton and Passaic, will extend its coverage to the city to provide a lower-cost alternative to traditional transit and rideshare applications.

The county launched the MOVE program in 2025. Since that start date, the service has completed more than 100,000 rides. Passaic County Commissioner Director Sandi Lazzara stated that the program aims to fill transportation gaps that fixed bus routes often cannot reach. "Traditional fixed bus routes can't reach every neighborhood or meet every need. MOVE helps fill those gaps," Lazzara said.

County data indicates that roughly 85% of riders do not have access to a personal vehicle. Passaic County Deputy Director Orlando Cruz noted that the area is one of the most densely populated in the country. "People can get to certain places, but it's so much more convenient to be able to get an affordable ride," Cruz said.

Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh described the expansion as a response to resident complaints about transportation costs. Sayegh said people have told him they struggled to reach work or essential destinations. "Now people can go to school and doctor's appointments without worrying about whether they can afford a ride," Sayegh said. Officials also cited potential benefits such as reduced parking demand and increased foot traffic for local businesses.

The service functions similarly to popular rideshare apps. Users book trips through the MOVE app, which matches them with other passengers traveling in the same direction and directs them to virtual pickup locations. The program also includes wheelchair-accessible vehicles and a toll-free phone line for those who prefer not to use the app.

Passaic County MOVE will operate Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Paterson. Residents can book trips via the Passaic County MOVE app, available on the App Store and Google Play, or by calling 973-791-0756.

The expansion adds Paterson to the existing service areas in Clifton and Passaic. The county noted that door-to-door service is available for riders with mobility needs. The $1.90 fare applies to all trips booked through the app or phone.