Good morning, Morristown.

The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism released the 2024 Economic Impact study at the annual Advocacy Day in Trenton and showed record growth as visitors spent $50.6 billion and the state welcomed 123.7 million visitors in 2024.

The report indicates this surge boosted jobs and tax revenue—forecasts predict further growth in 2025.

On Thursday, Governor Murphy and NJ Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer announced new literacy programs for K-3 that include an online literacy guide and two grant opportunities + offering $5,250,000 in funding.

The grants will run from June 1 to May 31 to help districts meet the requirements of P.L.2024, c.52.

Transit leaders met Friday morning to discuss projects that will ease North Jersey commutes — the plans include expanding the New Jersey Turnpike to reduce congestion, building a new Port Authority bus terminal to replace the current one by 2032, starting the Gateway Project to add train tracks, and repairing I-80 sinkholes with two lanes reopening in about a week and full reopening on June 25.

The National Mediation Board will hold a public interest meeting in Washington on May 12 — urging NJ Transit and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers to reach a deal before a possible strike on May 16 that could disrupt commuter rail service.

If a strike occurs, NJ Transit will spend $4 million a day on bus service that will help only about 20% of rail riders.

Sussex County Miners launched a season-long celebration on May 8 to mark their 10th anniversary at Skylands Stadium, unveiling a new commemorative logo featuring Herbie the Miner.

The team will host over 40 theme nights, facility upgrades, and community events throughout the season — proving their commitment to growing independent baseball in the area.