BERNARDS TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Somerset County) — Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) joined Somerset County officials and veteran advocates Thursday for the kickoff of the new Lyons VA Shuttle, a free transportation service connecting the Lyons Train Station with the Lyons VA Medical Center.
The event, held at the Lyons Train Station, marked the launch of the long-anticipated service, which aims to improve accessibility for New Jersey veterans — particularly those with disabilities — seeking care at the medical center.
“For too long, New Jersey veterans with disabilities have faced challenges accessing reliable transportation to the Lyons VA Medical Center. That changes with the launch of the Lyons VA Shuttle Service,” said Congressman Kean. “This milestone demonstrates what we can achieve when we work together across all levels of government. On the federal level, I am also pleased to build on this progress by introducing legislation to ensure this service remains a sustained, long-term solution. With Veterans Day just around the corner, this launch could not be more timely — it will improve lives, ease burdens, and honor those who have served our nation.”
After hearing from local veterans and advocates about transportation barriers, Kean met with NJ TRANSIT CEO Kris Kolluri in April 2025 to propose a dedicated shuttle linking the Lyons Train Station and the VA Medical Center. The initiative was made possible through federal funds administered by the State of New Jersey and a partnership between Somerset County, NJ TRANSIT, the Lyons VA Medical Center, and the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA).
During the ceremony, Kean also announced his new legislation, the Connecting Veterans to Care Act of 2025, which would expand federal funding flexibility to support transportation services for veterans. The bill is designed to ensure the Lyons VA Shuttle remains a lasting and sustainable program.
The fare-free shuttle will operate weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., making approximately eight round trips per day. The schedule aligns with NJ TRANSIT’s Morris & Essex Line to provide seamless travel connections.
The ADA-accessible vehicle can accommodate up to 16 passengers, including two wheelchair spaces. Somerset County will oversee the shuttle’s operation and maintenance. In addition to veterans, the service will be open to VA employees, friends, and family members visiting the Lyons campus.
Congressman Kean was joined at the ceremony by members of the Somerset County Board of Commissioners, representatives from NJDOT, NJ TRANSIT, DMAVA, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (LD-25), local officials, and veterans’ organizations.
The Lyons VA Shuttle Service is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen transportation access for veterans and ensure they can receive timely care at New Jersey’s VA facilities.
