Transportation Options Available in Lakewood, New Jersey

As a major, fast-growing hub in Ocean County, Lakewood, New Jersey, is a community defined by its robust and diverse transportation network. While the township does not have a passenger train station, it compensates with a comprehensive system of public and private buses that provide extensive local and regional connectivity. This system is supported by a web of major highways that make travel by car simple and direct.

Public Transportation

Public transit in Lakewood is centered around a major bus terminal, offering a wide range of options for local and long-distance travel.

NJ Transit Bus Service

The Lakewood Bus Terminal, located on 1st Street, is the primary hub for public transportation in the region. NJ Transit operates numerous key routes from this terminal, connecting residents to major cities and employment centers, including

  • New York City: Routes 137 and 139 provide direct, daily service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan.
  • Newark: Route 67 offers service to Newark.
  • Philadelphia: Route 317 connects Lakewood to Philadelphia.
  • Atlantic City: Route 559 provides service to Atlantic City.

Local Bus & Shuttle Services

For travel within the township and county, residents have two main options:

  • The Lakewood Shuttle (The "L"): This is a township-operated local bus service with multiple routes designed to connect key residential, shopping, and business areas within Lakewood.
  • Ocean Ride: As the official public transportation system for Ocean County, Ocean Ride operates several routes (like the OC3 and OC4) that connect Lakewood to neighboring towns, county facilities, and other transit hubs.

Private Bus Lines

In addition to public transit, Lakewood is served by private coach lines that offer direct commuter service, most notably to New York City. The Lakewood Express (Monsey Trails) is a popular private bus line offering frequent, direct routes between Lakewood and NYC.

Roadways and Major Highways

Driving is a primary mode of transportation for many residents, and Lakewood is conveniently located at the junction of several major highways:

  • Garden State Parkway: The GSP is easily accessible from Lakewood via Route 70, providing a direct north-south artery through New Jersey.
  • U.S. Route 9: This major surface-level highway runs north and south directly through the township, serving as a busy commercial and commuter corridor.
  • Other Key Routes: Route 88 (east-west), Route 70 (east-west), and Route 547 (north-south) are all major state and county roads that make navigating the region straightforward.

Airport Access

Lakewood is centrally located, providing reasonable access to several major international and regional airports:

  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): The closest major international airport, located approximately 40-50 miles north.
  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Located approximately 60 miles southwest.
  • Other Options: Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN) offers regional flights, while New York's JFK and LaGuardia (LGA) airports are also accessible.
  • Local Airport: The Lakewood Airport (N12) is a township-owned facility that serves general aviation and private aircraft.

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