Congressman Kean Advances Veterans’ Access to Care with Launch of New Lyons VA Shuttle Service and Legislative Action

(November 7, 2025) BERNARDS TOWNSHIP, NJ - Yesterday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) participated in the Lyons VA Shuttle kick-off ceremony at the Lyons Train Station. Hosted by Somerset County, the ceremony celebrated the launch of a new, fare-free shuttle service connecting veterans to the Lyons VA Medical Center from the Lyons Train Station.

After hearing from constituents and local veteran advocates about accessibility barriers to the Lyons VA Medical Center, Congressman Kean met with NJ TRANSIT CEO Kris Kolluri in April 2025 and advocated for a dedicated shuttle to bridge the train station with the medical center. The shuttle service relies on federal funds administered through the State of New Jersey and was made possible through a cooperative partnership between Somerset County, the Lyons VA Medical Center, NJ TRANSIT, and the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA).

"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 Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07). "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."

During the ceremony, Congressman Kean announced his new bill to unlock federal funds and ensure the Lyons VA Shuttle Service remains a lasting solution. The Connecting Veterans to Care Act of 2025 would provide greater flexibility in using federal funds to support the operation of public transportation services that serve Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities. The proposed legislation would be a key step towards providing the Lyons VA Shuttle with the resources needed to thrive long-term. A copy of the bill text is available HERE.

Starting on November 7, 2025, veterans traveling to the Lyons VA Medical Center in Bernards Township will have access to this new, fare-free shuttle from the Lyons Train Station. Operating weekdays from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, the Lyons shuttle will make approximately eight round trips daily between the train station and the medical center, aligning with NJ TRANSIT's preexisting Morris & Essex Line rail schedule to ensure smooth connections.

The ADA accessible vehicle accommodates 16 passengers and includes 2 wheelchair securement spaces. Somerset County will operate the shuttle, as well as maintain the vehicle for use. While designed with veterans in mind, the service will also be open to Lyons VA employees, as well as friends and family members, offering an easier way to reach and navigate the Lyons VA campus.

Congressman Kean joined the Somerset County Board of Commissioners, representatives from the New Jersey Department of Transportation, NJ TRANSIT, the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA), Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (LD-25), as well as local elected officials, veterans, their family members, and VA hospital staff at the event.

Pictured in photo at top:

• Congressman Tom Kean, Jr.
• Fran O'Connor, Commissioner, NJ Department of Transportation
• Justin Davis, Senior Vice President, NJ Transit
• Assemblywoman Aura Dunn
• Brigadier General Yvonne L. Mays, The Adjutant General
• Vincent Solomeno, Commissioner-Designate, NJ Department of Veterans Affairs
• Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson
• Somerset County Commissioner Deputy Director Melonie Marano
• Somerset County Commissioner Sara Sooy
• Somerset County Commissioner Paul Drake
• Somerset County Commissioner Elizabeth Graner
• Bernards Township Mayor Janice Fields
• Bernards Committeewoman Ana Duarte McCarthy
• Jason Ingle, Field Representative for Senator Andy Kim