welcome to the forums, Surreal. It's great to hear of a commuting cyclist in Jersey. Both my brother and sister attended Rutgers in Camden, actually my brother is graduating this semester. I ride through Camden when I go to Philadelphia and You definitely want some sturdy tires. There's a great shop at 3rd and Market in Philly called Trophy bikes. They can help you with any commuting hardware you might need.

It may not have occurred to you, but a street map is a great thing to have as a cyclist. I personally avoid highways like RT. 38, 70, and 130. If your sane you'll want to avoid them also.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.