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In 2008, transit ridership in New Jersey increased by more than 5 percent above 2007 levels, according to a report released last week by the nonprofit group Environment New Jersey (in conjunction with their national partner Environment America). Conversely, there was a 4 percent decrease in the number of miles driven in the state, which equals more than 2.8 million miles saved.

That striking reduction in miles driven translates to 137 million gallons of gasoline saved, or the amount consumed by over 239,000 cars.

Advocates say the report proves that Congress needs to invest in transit infrastructure.

“Environment New Jersey’s report proves that New Jerseyans are increasingly choosing transit to get around,” the nonprofit Tri-State Transportation Campaign’s Zoe Baldwin said in a statement. “With major transportation funding packages up for renewal in both Trenton and Washington, D.C., elected officials should give voters what they want — funding for more and better public transportation options.”

Specifically, the transportation advocates — and local lawmakers — say the proposed Northern Branch spur of the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail is one project that could easily be jumpstarted with some federal funding.

The project proposes an 11-mile extension of the light rail system from North Bergen to Tenafly. It would have the benefit not only of bring viable and convenient mass transit to more Bergen County residents, but also of connecting Jersey City residents — many of whom do not own cars and rely on public transit — with jobs and opportunities in a whole new region. NJ Transit projects the spur would provide daily service to more than 24,000 passengers.

“The people of our region deserve a convenient, accessible, comfortable, affordable and time- and energy-saving alternative to automobile travel,” U.S. Rep. Steve Rothman, who represents part of Jersey City and a large swath of Bergen County, said in a statement. “Investments in projects like the Northern Branch line provide options to automobile travel, and also reduce traffic congestion, cut carbon pollution and lessen America’s dependence on foreign oil.”

You can read the full national report here.