(05/05/06) EDISON ? The rising price of gas in New Jersey is forcing some residents to think outside the box when it comes to their commute.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner Kris Kolluri says the number of riders on public transportation has increased about 6 percent since January. According to Kolluri, the increase in public transportation riders is a positive development for New Jersey. He says it gets cars off the road and makes public transportation a more viable option.

In addition to public transportation, many commuters have been breaking out their old bicycles to get them to work. The owner of a bike shop says he?s seen more people coming in to repair their bicycles. Residents have also been utilizing other fuel-efficient options, such as mopeds, to get them where they need to go.

Related information: News 12 New Jersey Gas Gauge