The Cost of a Trip between Bloomfield, New Jersey and Elizabeth, New Jersey

When planning a trip between two different locations, one of the most important considerations is the cost of transportation. This article will explore the different options for traveling from Bloomfield, New Jersey to Elizabeth, New Jersey, and how much each option will cost based on current gas prices. By comparing the costs and distances of each route, readers can make informed decisions about which route is the best choice for their needs.

Route Options

There are several routes that one could take from Bloomfield to Elizabeth, each with its own costs and benefits. The most direct route is to take the Garden State Parkway, which follows a relatively straight path southward through New Jersey before connecting to other highways that lead to Elizabeth. Another option is to take Route 1, which travels eastward along the coast and provides access to several other highways. A third option is to take the New Jersey Turnpike, which is a toll road that provides direct access to Elizabeth.

Garden State Parkway

The Garden State Parkway is the most direct and straightforward route between Bloomfield and Elizabeth. It covers a distance of approximately 15 miles and crosses several towns and cities along the way. The cost of using the Garden State Parkway varies depending on the time of day and the presence of tolls. During rush hour, the toll for a passenger car is $1.50, and during off-peak hours, it is $1.10. If one is using an E-ZPass, the cost is $1.40 during rush hour and $1.05 during off-peak hours.

Route 1

Route 1 is another option for traveling between Bloomfield and Elizabeth. It covers a distance of approximately 30 miles and provides access to several other highways, including the New Jersey Turnpike and Interstate 287. The cost of using Route 1 is minimal since it is a free highway and does not have any tolls along the way.

New Jersey Turnpike

The New Jersey Turnpike is a toll road that provides direct access to Elizabeth from Bloomfield. It covers a distance of approximately 28 miles and connects to several other highways along the way. The cost of using the New Jersey Turnpike varies depending on the time of day and the presence of tolls. During rush hour, the toll for a passenger car is $13.85, and during off-peak hours, it is $9.85. If one is using an E-ZPass, the cost is $11.45 during rush hour and $8.40 during off-peak hours.

Comparing Costs and Distances

When comparing the different routes available between Bloomfield and Elizabeth, one should take both the cost and the distance into consideration. To determine the cheapest option, one must divide the total cost by the total distance traveled and compare the resulting cost per mile.

Garden State Parkway

Assuming one is using the Garden State Parkway during off-peak hours, the total cost of the trip would be $16.50 (15 miles x $1.10/toll). Dividing this cost by the total distance traveled gives a cost of $1.10 per mile.

Route 1

Since Route 1 is a free highway, the total cost of the trip would be $0. However, the distance traveled is longer than the Garden State Parkway, coming in at approximately 30 miles. Dividing the distance traveled by the cost (or lack thereof) gives a cost per mile of $0.

New Jersey Turnpike

Assuming one is using the New Jersey Turnpike during off-peak hours, the total cost of the trip would be $28.35 (28 miles x $0.85/toll + $8.40/E-ZPass). Dividing this cost by the total distance traveled gives a cost of $1.01 per mile.

Recommended Route

Based solely on the cost per mile, the cheapest route would be Route 1, followed closely by the Garden State Parkway and then the New Jersey Turnpike. However, it is important to note that Route 1 will take longer due to the extra distance traveled. Additionally, since Route 1 travels along the coast, drivers may encounter more traffic and congestion during peak travel times.

The Garden State Parkway is the most direct and efficient route, with a relatively low cost per mile. If one is traveling during off-peak hours, the added cost of tolls is minimal. The New Jersey Turnpike is a faster route, but the high cost of tolls makes it less appealing, and the cost per mile is only slightly lower than the Garden State Parkway.

Conclusion

In conclusion, deciding on the best route from Bloomfield to Elizabeth, New Jersey, involves weighing the cost and distance of each option. While Route 1 is the cheapest option in terms of cost per mile, it may not be the most time-efficient route. The Garden State Parkway is the most direct option, offering a relatively low cost per mile and minimal tolls, making it the recommended route for most travelers. Regardless of which route one chooses, planning and accounting for the costs of the trip in advance can save considerable stress and allow for a more enjoyable driving experience.