NJ Transit has begun restoring light rail service this Monday afternoon, following a major blizzard that blanketed parts of New Jersey with over a foot of snow. The agency confirmed that broader service across all lines is set to resume on Tuesday, signaling a significant step towards recovery after the severe weather event.
Initial light rail services, including Newark Light Rail and the River LINE, restarted around 4:00 PM on Monday, operating on a Sunday schedule. The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail followed suit at 6:00 PM, also running on a weekend timetable.
Key Takeaways
- Newark Light Rail and River LINE resumed Monday afternoon on Sunday schedules.
- Hudson-Bergen Light Rail restarted Monday evening on a weekend schedule.
- All three light rail lines, bus, and Access Link services will operate on a regular weekday schedule Tuesday.
- Commuter rail service resumes on a modified holiday schedule Tuesday.
- North Jersey Coast Line and Raritan Valley Line remain suspended.
Full Service Restoration Expected for Light Rail and Buses
NJ Transit announced a full return to regular weekday schedules for all three light rail lines, bus services, and Access Link on Tuesday. This comprehensive resumption aims to bring much-needed normalcy to daily commutes across the state.
Crews have been working tirelessly to clear platforms, rail lines, and bus facilities. Officials continue to assess any storm damage statewide, ensuring passenger safety before full operations resume.
Blizzard Impact
Some areas of New Jersey received more than 12 inches of snow during the recent blizzard, causing widespread disruptions to transportation and daily life.
Commuter Rail Service Adjustments
Commuter rail service will also resume on Tuesday, albeit with several modifications. The agency specified that these lines would operate on a holiday schedule.
Specifically, the Pascack Valley, Main-Bergen, and Port Jervis lines will run on their regular holiday schedules. The Atlantic City Rail Line will maintain a regular weekday schedule, providing a vital link for southern New Jersey commuters.
Midtown Direct and Northeast Corridor Modifications
Travelers using the Morris & Essex and Montclair-Boonton lines, typically offering Midtown Direct service to Penn Station, New York, will experience a change. These lines will now operate to Hoboken instead of New York Penn Station.
Northeast Corridor trains will run between Trenton and Metropark. From Metropark, trains will operate express to Newark Penn Station, allowing passengers to connect to Secaucus and New York Penn Station.
Understanding Holiday Schedules
Holiday schedules often mean fewer trains than regular weekday service. Passengers should check specific timetables for their routes to avoid delays.
Lines Remaining Suspended
Despite the broader resumption of services, two critical commuter rail lines will remain suspended on Tuesday. NJ Transit confirmed there will be no service on the North Jersey Coast Line or the Raritan Valley Line.
Passengers who rely on these lines will need to seek alternative transportation or make arrangements for their commutes. The agency has not yet provided a timeline for the resumption of these specific services.
"I am confident that these dedicated men and women will continue their efforts in the aftermath of this historic snowstorm until all systems are fully operational."
Statewide Recovery Efforts Underway
Governor Mikie Sherrill highlighted the extensive efforts being made across the state. She noted that thousands of utility and transportation workers have been deployed since the storm began.
Governor Sherrill described the recent snowstorm as "historic." Her statement underscored the scale of the challenge and the commitment to restoring all essential services.
Travel Advisories and Road Conditions
The statewide travel ban, which was in effect during the blizzard, has now expired. The New Jersey Turnpike Authority is progressively restoring normal speed limits on both the Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway.
Despite the lifting of the ban and speed limit adjustments, officials continue to advise motorists to limit non-essential travel. They also urged extreme caution on the roads, as conditions may still be hazardous in some areas.
- Check njtransit.com for the latest updates.
- Utilize the NJ Transit mobile app for real-time information.
- Follow NJ Transit's social media feeds for immediate alerts.
NJ Transit strongly recommends that all riders check the agency’s official website, mobile app, or social media channels for the most current service updates before traveling. This will help commuters stay informed of any further changes or delays as recovery efforts continue.
