One of New Jersey governor-elect Phil Murphy's top challenges when he takes office this month will be to address the problems afflicting New Jersey Transit, the public transportation corporation under fire for its safety and reliability performance.

Last month Murphy called the organization "a national disgrace."

Experts say many of the problems stem from a lack of funding, starting with a pattern of raiding the capital budget to cover operating expenses. That has left some important projects in limbo.

Murphy is expected to name a new executive director in the coming weeks.

NJ Transit also faces a December deadline to complete the installation of a federally mandated safety braking system.

Through September, the system had only been installed in 25 of 440 locomotives and none of 11 track segments.