Commuting from Scotch Plains to Financial District NY (Newark, Union: home, buy)

[wein]

Hi there - I am in the process of purchasing a home in Scotch Plains. It is unfortunately NOT walking distance to the Fanwood train station. I am currently on the waiting lists for both Scotch Plains and Cranford parking lots.

I know I can try to get to the train station early to try to snag one of the daily spots (any one have any idea what time those usually fill up by?) - but what are any alternative ways to get into the city?

I am leaning towards actually driving to Newark and parking near Newark Penn over taking the bus. My work hours sometimes skew pretty late into the evening. How awful is traffic on 22 heading into Newark on weekday mornings? Should I not even consider this as an option?

Any other advice?

Thanks in advance!!

[KoalaNJ]

Originally Posted by wein

I am leaning towards actually driving to Newark and parking near Newark Penn over taking the bus. My work hours sometimes skew pretty late into the evening. How awful is traffic on 22 heading into Newark on weekday mornings? Should I not even consider this as an option?

Any other advice?

Thanks in advance!!

I think this, which is of rte 22 in Union Twp pretty well sums up your question...
NJ traffic congestion: There MUST be a better way! - YouTube

You might be better heading north and using 78 instead.

KoalaNJ

[Freshflakes757]

It honestly doesn't seem too bad. I've done 22 when 78E has been jammed from Warren township and while it takes longer and there is traffic, it can definitely be done. You would just have to plan your commute and try to avoid 22 until past Union township. Take backroads through Mountainside and enter 22E in Union and it should be better. The clog up occurs between Scotch Plains and Mountainside for about 2-3 miles in the morning about 8am.

[DarkWolf]

Driving into Newark might be a bigger headache.....the Bus isn't so bad...its not a city bus but an Interstate or Suburban bus so its more comfortable.... Between the Gas costs , traffic and parking costs driving Newark will put a dent in your wallet....over time Vs the Bus - PATH combo... You can buy a fold up bike and ride to the Fanwood station then bring it onto the train which has space for the bikes in the center of the car , then fold it up and take it into the city.

[juca_cruz]

I also live in Scotch Plains (and work in NYC as well) and what I do is drive to Rahway and take the train from there to Newark Penn and take the PATH.

FYI
@ Rahway I got a monthly permit after 4 weeks of waiting period

Regards