The Ridgewood Blog Brings a Free Market Laissez-faire Point of View to Local, New Jersey State and National Issues.
When taxes on the $400k+ folks exceed the NY tax rates on the same folks by 2-4%, the will prefer to stay in NY state (most work in NYC anyway.)
This will lead to long term decline in real estate values, and higher taxes, for the very constituents Josh represents.
If in doubt, just check with any friends in Fairfield County CT to see how the tax hikes have worked out for them.
February 14, 2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, In a unanimous vote, the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors approved the proposed alignment of the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail’s planned expansion into Bergen County as described in the Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact statement dated March 2017. The selection of the “Locally Preferred Alternative” is required as part of the federal environmental review process.
The Board action also authorizes the submission of the Locally Preferred Alternative to the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority Board of Trustees for designation and inclusion in their Long-Range Regional Transportation Plan.
During Project Development the project sponsor must select a Locally Preferred Alternative; get the Locally Preferred Alternative adopted into the fiscally constrained metropolitan transportation plan; and complete the environmental review process under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
By selecting the Locally Preferred Alternative at this time, NJ TRANSIT will be able to initiate design and engineering activities upon completion of the Final Environmental Impact Statement and receipt of the Record of Decision from the FTA, in advance of requesting entry into Project Development.
Locally Preferred Alternative
The Locally Preferred Alternative consists of a 10-mile two-track extension of the HBLR from its current terminus at Tonnelle Avenue northward to the Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, generally utilizing CSX Transportation’s Northern Branch running track. The project will construct a total of seven stations in North Bergen, Ridgefield, Palisades Park, Leonia, and Englewood (three stations) and parking for approximately 2,740 vehicles. Service is proposed to operate from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. with six-minute headways during the peak period and 15-minute headways during the off-peak period. It is estimated that the project will serve 12,370 passengers per average weekday in the year 2030.
See attached map for a visual of the route of the Locally Preferred Alternative.
February 15,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, In a unanimous vote, the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors approved Kevin Corbett as the next Executive Director of NJ TRANSIT during the regularly scheduled Board of Directors meeting today. The appointment is effective starting on Monday, February 19, 2018.
“Kevin is taking on one of the toughest jobs in New Jersey – turning NJ Transit around and restoring it as a world-class transportation agency that our commuters can rely on. Every New Jerseyan who takes the train or bus every day, and the thousands of employees who show up for work, deserves visionary leadership committed to getting this system right. Kevin’s confirmation signals that we have begun the difficult process of rebuilding NJ TRANSIT and, in time, regaining commuters’ trust in the system,” said Governor Phil Murphy.
“I would like to thank Governor Murphy and the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors for the opportunity to serve the state of New Jersey,” said incoming Executive Director Kevin Corbett. “I look forward to working with the dedicated men and women of NJ TRANSIT in restoring the transportation system to the national leader it once was, providing safe and reliable service and boosting economic development in New Jersey.”
Prior to incoming Executive Director Corbett’s appointment, he served as Vice President, Cross Services at AECOM, one of the world’s premier transportation and infrastructure companies. In this role, Mr. Corbett drew on the extensive resources from across AECOM’s various business lines to provide optimal solutions for AECOM’s clients.
AECOM projects that Mr. Corbett was Principal-In-Charge of or actively served in a management role included Moynihan Station Phase one, Amtrak’s Gateway Program, Second Avenue Subway – Phase one, Penn Vision, Penn Station Critical Improvements, One WTC Interim Loading Dock, Post-Sandy PATH Restoration and other related regional resiliency and restoration projects. Previously, Mr. Corbett was responsible for the global marine and freight business for DMJM+HARRIS, a legacy AECOM company, as well as other AECOM subsidiaries.
In the civic realm, Mr. Corbett currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Regional Plan Association (RPA) and is Co-Chair of its Transportation Committee. He also serves on the board of the Maritime Association of the Port of New York & New Jersey (President), Tri-State Transportation Campaign and The New York League of Conservation Voters (Chairman).
Mr. Corbett is a graduate of Georgetown University and serves as a Blue & Gold Officer for the U.S. Naval Academy.
February 12,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack NJ, The Bergen County Sheriff’s Office announced that, effective this week, we have begun offering Vivitrol to eligible inmates as part of our reentry program and specifically to those individual who are struggling with opioid / heroin addiction. The first two participants have already been enrolled and we will be monitoring these individuals to support them and to measure the impact of this initiative.
Vivitrol is an injectable medicine used to block the effects and cravings for both opioids and alcohol for a period of one month. Participants are often prescribed this medication for up to one year in conjunction with out-patient therapy for best results. We are excited to offer this program in partnership with two outstanding local agencies, www.transitionprofessionals.org, and www.cbhcare.com .
January 29,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ TRANSIT Board Member Flora Castillo has been presented the 2018 Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award. The honor was awarded last night during a ceremony at Club 101 in New York City.
The award is presented each year to a nominee who takes initiative to facilitate professional opportunities for women and minorities, and promotes diversity, inclusion and multi-cultural awareness within their organization.
“To be honored with an award bearing Rosa Parks name is a personal and professional highlight,” said Ms. Castillo. “I’ve continually tried to follow her trailblazing footsteps in everything I do. That’s why I feel it is critical to pay it forward by advocating for diversity and inclusion and ensuring that our transportation and mobility services enable all of our customers, especially those for whom transit services are their lifeline to employment, medical care, education and all the locations that support their well-being. This is a tremendous honor.”
Ms. Castillo has served as a member of the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors since 1999, and holds the distinction as being the first Latina to serve on the Board. She currently chairs the Board’s Customer Service Committee and is a member of the Safety and Administration Committees.
An ardent transit advocate, particularly for minority customers and customers with disabilities, Ms. Castillo has played a vital role in ensuring quality services for all
NJ TRANSIT customers, including increased seating capacity, cleaner trains and buses, new equipment and equity in the distribution of all NJ TRANSIT equipment, services and programs. Beyond being an advocate for customers, Ms. Castillo has been a strident and steadfast advocate for business opportunities for small, minority, woman-owned and disadvantaged business enterprises (S/M/W/DBEs). This included the creation of Diversity Officer role and enhancement on the focus of opportunities for minorities and women within and outside of NJ TRANSIT.
Due in large part to Ms. Castillo’s advocacy and guidance, NJ TRANSIT has enjoyed continuous and historically unprecedented improvement both in its relationship to communities of color, and dollars awarded to S/M/W/DBEs. Ms. Castillo’s advocacy for civil rights, equity, environmental justice, diversity and inclusion, have kept NJ TRANSIT focused on this critical dimension of the corporation’s current responsibilities, as well as its future.
file photo by Boyd Loving
January 24,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ho Ho Kus NJ, The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and NJ Transit (NJT) have concerns about the large trucks trying to maneuver up and down the Glenwood Road hill, as well as motorists who come down the hill, stop in the middle of the train tracks to drop someone off at the train station, and then make a U-turn on the tracks to go back up the hill. Due to these occurrences, NJDOT and NJT considered either closing down the Glenwood Road hill completely or making Glenwood Road one-way, going down the hill.
This was met by the Village Council adopting a resolution, and comments from many Ridgewood residents, and the Ho-Ho-Kus Chamber of Commerce urging that the Glenwood Road hill remain open in both directions. NJDOT and NJT have agreed to a six-month enforcement period, from January 1, 2018 through June 30, 2018 and then a three-month quiet period, from July 1, 2018 through September 30, 2018 with no enforcement. NJDOT and NJT will be closely monitoring the activities at the Ho-Ho-Kus train station during the entire nine-month period, and then will make their final decision. The Village Council has adopted an ordinance prohibiting oversized or overweight vehicles from traveling on this road, and signs are being posted.
Village Manager Heather A. Mailander , “We urge all Ridgewood residents using the Glenwood Road hill to and from the Ho-Ho-Kus train station, to obey all regulations while using this route so that the decision will be to allow the Glenwood Road hill to remain open in both directions.”
January 7,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Monday at Penn Station New York , the Amtrak Track Rehabilitation/Construction get underway. This will affect NJ TRANSIT’s NEC & NJCL Weekday Train Service ,beginning Monday, January 8, 2018.
Service will be adjusted in and out of New York, and NJT customers are advised to prepare for delays and crowded conditions.
Beginning Monday, January 8 and continuing through Monday, May 28, 2018, service on NJ TRANSIT’s Northeast Corridor (NEC) and North Jersey Coast Line (NJCL) will be adjusted to accommodate Amtrak Track Rehabilitation work at Penn Station New York (PSNY).
During this time, NEC and NJCL schedules will be modified. Other train lines may have slight adjustments. New rail schedules will take effect on Sunday, January 7 on all rail lines except the Atlantic City Line. Please review the information below and refer to your schedule.
Train 3867 (5:17 p.m. from PSNY) will now depart PSNY at 5:21 p.m. It will NOT stop at Newark Airport.
Train 3122 (7:06 a.m. from New Brunswick) will now depart New Brunswick at 7:05 a.m. and terminate at Newark Penn Station. This train (renumbered as Train 5822) will no longer serve Secaucus or New York. Connecting service to New York will be available on Train 3124 (see below).
Train 3869 (5:32 p.m. from PSNY) will now depart New York at 5:37 p.m. and operate to Jersey Avenue only. This train (renumbered as Train 3727) will NOT stop at Newark Airport.
Train 3124 (7:16 a.m. from New Brunswick) will now depart New Brunswick at 7:11 a.m. It will no longer serve Newark Airport or Secaucus stations.
Train3171 (5:43 p.m. from PSNY) will no longer serve New York and Secaucus, but will originate at Newark Penn Station, departing there at 6:03 p.m. This train (renumbered as Train 5869) will add a Newark Airport stop, operate express to Rahway, and then make all stops to Trenton.
NEC/NJCL NEC/NJCL
Train 3502 will now arrive in New York at 8:18 a.m.
Train 3441 (6:51 p.m. from PSNY) will be CANCELLED.
Train 3875 (6:47 p.m. from PSNY) will make ALL local stops.
January 2,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Upcoming Amtrak track work at Penn Station New York (PSNY) will impact select NJ TRANSIT peak period train service along the Northeast Corridor (NEC) and North Jersey Coast Line (NJCL) with scheduled service adjustments to begin on January 8, 2018 through May 28, 2018.
The work will mainly affect a total of five trains per day which includes two in the a.m. peak and three in the p.m. peak periods. Of these five trains, one NJCL train in both the a.m. and p.m. will be diverted to Hoboken; one NEC train in both the a.m. and p.m. will terminate/originate at Newark Penn Station and another NJCL train in the p.m. will be cancelled. Other trains and other train lines may have adjustments made to the timetable or station stops, and customers are advised to check the service timetables carefully.
“While this impact is far less than what we experienced this past summer, we encourage our Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Line customers to do their homework and adjust their commuting plans if needed,” said Executive Director Steven H. Santoro. “I want to thank our customers in advance as we continue to support Amtrak’s efforts to renew critical infrastructure at Penn Station New York and avoid a repeat of the derailments we saw this past spring.”
The affected trains are as follows:
A.M.
NJCL train 3216, the 6:11 a.m. eastbound Long Branch departure, will now depart at 6:23 a.m. and will be diverted to Hoboken renumbered as 2604
NEC train 3122, the 7:06 a.m. eastbound departure from New Brunswick will terminate at Newark Penn Station renumbered as 5822.
P.M.
NJCL train 3267, the 5:25 p.m. departure from PSNY, will originate from Hoboken at 5:22 p.m. renumbered as 2609
NEC train 3171, the 5:43 p.m. departure from PSNY, will originate at Newark Penn Station at 6:03 p.m. renumbered as 5869
NJCL train 3441, the 6:51 p.m. departure from PSNY, will be cancelled
Customers are advised that trains prior to or following the affected trains may experience crowded conditions.
Alternate travel options
Customers with flexibility in their travel may consider the following alternate options:
NJCL customers may consider utilizing private bus carriers such as Academy Bus from locations including the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel. Visit www.academybus.com for complete details.
NJCL customers may also consider ferry service from Monmouth County including NY Waterway’s ferry from Belford www.nywaterway.com or Seastreak ferry from Highlands or Atlantic Highlands www.seastreak.com.
NEC customers may consider private bus carriers including Suburban Transit/Coach USA bus from points in Mercer and Middlesex Counties www.coachusa.com.
Customers may also utilize NJ TRANSIT bus service on the Route 9 corridor.
Travel Tips
New York bound customers who choose to continue taking a train which now terminates at Newark Penn Station should purchase their tickets/passes to Newark Penn Station and then purchase tickets/passes for PATH.
New York bound customers who choose to continue taking a train which now terminates/originates at Hoboken Terminal should purchase their tickets/passes to Hoboken and then purchase tickets/passes for PATH or NY Waterway ferry.
Check njtransit.com or news media before starting your trip for service advisories or alerts that may affect your trip.
Stay connected during your commute through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. Search for rail, bus or light rail-specific Twitter accounts for the best information. While we make every effort to respond to comments posted on our social media channels, we recommend that you contact our Customer Service team directly with critical or time-sensitive issues.
Twitter: @NJTRANSIT
Facebook: facebook.com/NJTRANSIT
YouTube Channel: TheNewJerseyTransit
If you will be altering your travel pattern during this time, you may want to update your travel alert preferences in your My Transit account. If you do not have a My Transit account, sign up to receive alerts at njtransit.com/mytransit.
December 30,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, earlier this month Gov. Chris Christie and New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced commitments to fund 100 percent of their respective share of the new Gateway tunnel. The agreement follows a 2015 framework agreement in which the federal government agreed to fund 50 percent of the project.
The agreement for a combined $5.5 billion states that the State of New York will contribute $1.75 billion with NJ Transit committing $1.9 billion and the Port Authority contributing $1.9 billion.
But the Trump administration through cold water on the idea on Friday . In a letter to New York and New Jersey officials, a top Federal Transit Administration Deputy Administrator Jane Williams signaled that the Trump administration would not recognize the agreement struck under former President Barack Obama that called for the federal government to pay half the cost of the project.
The letter stated that ,“There is no such agreement,” and “We consider it unhelpful to reference a nonexistent ‘agreement’ rather than directly address the responsibility for funding a local project where nine out of 10 passengers are local transit riders,”
![nyc-times-square-new-year-eve[1]](https://theridgewoodblog.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/nyc-times-square-new-year-eve1.jpg "New Jersey Transit Will Offer Extra Service For New Year's Celebrations!")
December 30 ,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, NJ TRANSIT is offering extra service for New Year’s Eve and early morning New Year’s Day to give customers additional travel options as they enjoy the festivities to ring in 2018 with family and friends.
NJ TRANSIT’s money-saving Family SuperSaver fare, which allows up to two children 11 and younger to travel free with each fare-paying customer, remains in effect. Usually limited to weekends, the Family SuperSaver Fare has been extended and will be in effect until 6 a.m. Tuesday, January 2, on all trains, buses and light rail lines.
“This is traditionally a time to enjoy special events in our region and many visitors are using NJ TRANSIT to get where they need to go,’’ said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Steven H. Santoro. “NJ TRANSIT is pleased to offer the Family SuperSaver Fare, which allows our customers to stretch their holiday budgets just a bit. So leave the car behind and use NJ TRANSIT to go the mall, get into New York City or gather at a loved one’s home during this busy season.’’
IMPORTANT NOTE: NJ TRANSIT is prohibiting all beverages on all of its trains, light rail vehicles and buses on Sunday, December 31, 2017, and the early morning hours of Monday, January 1, 2018. This policy will be strictly enforced.
For complete schedule and fare information, customers may visit njtransit.com or call 973-275-5555.
“The Commuter Tool Kit – The Tools You Need for a Better Travel Experience’’ is a colorful campaign designed for both the everyday commuter and visitor travelling on
NJ TRANSIT’s rail, bus, light rail and Access Link systems. Several features such as the mobile app, trip planner, ticket purchase options, travel information and travel savings are highlighted in the campaign. The brochure is printed in both English and Spanish.
The Commuter Tool Kit is available in brochure form, on the NJ TRANSIT website, in digital displays and delivered through the agency’s social media channels.
Customers can also take advantage of other ways to save money. NJ TRANSIT works with promotional partners throughout the year to offer discounts to many entertainment venues. Customers can go to njtransit.com/deals for special offers on show tickets, admission costs and travel this holiday season.
Today Saturday, December 30, trains will operate on a weekend schedule. Buses will operate on a Saturday schedule with extra inbound service to New York. Consult timetable or visit njtransit.com to view the Bus Holiday Service Guide for details. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and River LINE will operate on a weekend schedule. Consult njtransit.com for more information.
On New Year’s Eve, Sunday, December 31, trains will operate on a weekend schedule. In the evening, there will be extra train service to New York. Extra train service will be in place to New York and Hoboken from approximately 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. Meadowlands service will be in place for the Giants vs. Redskins game at 1 p.m. Special printable schedules that cover the period from 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve until 6 a.m. on New Year’s morning are available at njtransit.com. Rail travel information for New Year’s Eve is also available via the Trip Planner and Station-to-Station features on njtransit.com.
Buses will operate on a Sunday schedule with additional early evening service inbound and extra outbound service from PABT after midnight on selected routes. Customers are advised to consult timetables or visit njtransit.com to view the Bus Holiday Service Guide for more details.
Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule with additional trips operating between Tonnelle Avenue and Hoboken beginning at approximately 5 p.m. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Sunday schedule. River LINE will operate on a Saturday schedule. River LINE and Hudson Bergen Light Rail will both operate additional service after the New Year festivities during the early hours of January 1. Specific trip information will be available on njtransit.com.
After midnight (early January 1), additional late-night trains will operate on most rail lines with one-seat ride service available on certain Raritan Valley Line and North Jersey Coast Line trains until approximately 5 a.m. Some trains that normally depart New York/Hoboken/Newark between midnight and 1 a.m. are cancelled and will be replaced with later trains. After 5 a.m., trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule after. Customers should visit njtransit.com for details, including special printable schedules that cover the period from 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve until 6 a.m. on New Year’s morning. Expanded bus service will be provided from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) until approximately 2 a.m. Some routes will be departing from alternate areas within the PABT. Visit njtransit.com to view the Bus Holiday Service Guide for specific schedule details and departure gate assignments.
On New Year’s Day, Monday, January 1, after 5 a.m., trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule. Bus service will vary by route. River LINE will operate on a Sunday schedule. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Bus service will vary by route. Customers are advised to visit njtransit.com for details.
December 24,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, if you are doing and traveling this week on New Jersey Transit , there is a special schedule everyday Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24, NJ TRANSIT trains will operate on a weekend schedule on all rail lines. In addition, Meadowlands service will operate for the Jets vs. Chargers game at 1 p.m. Newark Light Rail and River LINE will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Most buses will operate on a Sunday schedule. Customers are advised to consult their timetable for the holiday schedule or visit njtransit.com for details.
Christmas Day, Monday, December 25, NJ TRANSIT trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule on all lines. Newark Light Rail and River LINE will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Bus schedules vary by route. Customers can check timetables online at www.njtransit.com. Select bus routes will operate fewer trips during the traditional morning and evening peak periods. Customers are advised to consult their timetable for holiday schedules or visit njtransit.com for more details.
On Tuesday, December 26, Wednesday, December 27, Thursday, December 28 and Friday, December 29, trains will operate on a modified weekday schedule with certain morning peak period trains cancelled and additional mid-to-late morning service on each line. Rail customers are encouraged to visit njtransit.com and check rail timetables for details and travel before 9 a.m. on these days, if possible, when ridership is lighter. Buses and light rail lines will operate on a weekday schedule. Selected PABT bus routes will have more frequent service operating inbound to PABT on some lines during the late morning hours and outbound from PABT during the early and late evening hours. Consult timetable or visit njtransit.com/Bus Holiday Service Guide for details.
On Saturday, December 30, trains will operate on a weekend schedule. Buses will operate on a Saturday schedule with extra inbound service to New York. Consult timetable or visit njtransit.com/Bus Holiday Service Guide for details. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and River LINE will operate on a weekend schedule. Consult njtransit.com for more information.
On New Year’s Eve, Sunday, December 31, trains will operate on a weekend schedule. In the evening, there will be extra train service to New York. Extra train service will be in place to New York and Hoboken from approximately 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. Meadowlands service will be in place for the Giants vs. Redskins game at 1 p.m. Special printable schedules that cover the period from 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve until 6 a.m. on New Year’s morning will be available at njtransit.com during the week of December 18. Rail travel information for New Year’s Eve is also available via the Trip Planner and Station-to-Station features on njtransit.com.
December 24,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, NJ TRANSIT has upgraded its mobile app to offer additional features and functionality and an enhanced user experience.
“Our goal is to make the NJ TRANSIT mobile app the single source for all of the travel information our customers need, from purchasing tickets to viewing schedules and receiving alerts,” said NJ TRANSIT’s Executive Director Steven H. Santoro. “As technology evolves, we will continue to add additional features to provide customers a streamlined experience right from their cell phones.”
The upgrades allow rail customers to purchase 10-trip tickets, view bus and light rail schedules, and provide more specific travel alerts and advisories.
NJ TRANSIT travel alerts and advisories will now be customizable to selected rail lines and bus routes. After users select the rail line and/or bus route they travel, they will receive service advisories specific to their selections directly through the app.
Upgrades also include the addition of bus and light rail schedules. By entering the origin and destination of a trip and their travel date, customers can view the corresponding bus and light rail schedules in the app.
The use of mobile ticketing through the MyTix app has grown steadily since its introduction in 2013 and there are now more than 1.5 million customer accounts.
December 20,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, NJ TRANSIT is offering extra service for the upcoming holidays to give customers more travel options for last-minute shopping at the mall, leaving work early or attending New Year’s Eve festivities.
In addition, NJ TRANSIT is giving customers almost two weeks of continuous savings through a special extension of the Family SuperSaver Fare, which allows up to two children 11 and younger to travel free with each fare-paying customer. Usually limited to weekends, the Family SuperSaver Fare will be in effect for the entire holiday period, starting at 7 p.m. Friday, December 22 until 6 a.m. Tuesday, January 2, on all trains, buses and light rail lines.
“This is the time of year when so many special events take place and many visitors are using NJ TRANSIT to get where they need to go,’’ said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Steven H. Santoro. “NJ TRANSIT is pleased to offer the Family SuperSaver Fare, which allows our customers to stretch their holiday budgets just a bit. So leave the car behind and use NJ TRANSIT to go the mall, get into New York City or gather at a loved one’s home without the hassle of driving.’’
For complete schedule and fare information, customers may visit njtransit.com or call 973-275-5555.
“The Commuter Tool Kit – The Tools You Need for a Better Travel Experience’’ is a colorful campaign designed for both the everyday commuter and visitor travelling on
NJ TRANSIT’s rail, bus, light rail and Access Link systems. Several features such as the mobile app, trip planner, ticket purchase options, travel information and travel savings are highlighted in the campaign. The brochure is printed in both English and Spanish.
The Commuter Tool Kit is available in brochure form, on the NJ TRANSIT website, in digital displays and delivered through the agency’s social media channels.
Customers can also take advantage of other ways to save money. NJ TRANSIT works with promotional partners throughout the year to offer discounts to many entertainment venues. Customers can go to njtransit.com/deals for special offers on show tickets, admission costs and travel this holiday season.
Friday, December 22
NJ TRANSIT will operate on a weekday schedule on most lines with additional “early getaway” service from New York Penn Station, Newark Penn Station and Hoboken Terminal starting at 1 p.m. on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast, Raritan Valley, Morris & Essex and Port Jervis lines. On the Pascack Valley Line, regular Friday getaway service will operate. Newark Light Rail, Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and River LINE will operate on a weekday schedule. Buses will operate on a weekday schedule on all routes, with early getaway service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal and on selected Jersey City waterfront routes starting around noon until 4 p.m. to accommodate the heaviest travel. Visit njtransit.com for details.
Saturday, December 23
NJ TRANSIT trains will operate on a weekend schedule. Most bus routes will operate on a Saturday schedule. Newark Light Rail and River LINE will operate on a Saturday schedule. HBLR will operate on a weekend schedule. Customers should consult their timetable for the holiday schedule or visit njtransit.com for details.
Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24
NJ TRANSIT trains will operate on a weekend schedule on all rail lines. In addition, Meadowlands service will operate for the Jets vs. Chargers game at 1 p.m. Newark Light Rail and River LINE will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Most buses will operate on a Sunday schedule. Customers are advised to consult their timetable for the holiday schedule or visit njtransit.com for details.
Christmas Day, Monday, December 25
NJ TRANSIT trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule on all lines. Newark Light Rail and River LINE will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Bus schedules vary by route. Customers can check timetables online at www.njtransit.com. Select bus routes will operate fewer trips during the traditional morning and evening peak periods. Customers are advised to consult their timetable for holiday schedules or visit njtransit.com for more details.
On Tuesday, December 26, Wednesday, December 27, Thursday, December 28 and Friday, December 29, trains will operate on a modified weekday schedule with certain morning peak period trains cancelled and additional mid-to-late morning service on each line. Rail customers are encouraged to visit njtransit.com and check rail timetables for details and travel before 9 a.m. on these days, if possible, when ridership is lighter. Buses and light rail lines will operate on a weekday schedule. Selected PABT bus routes will have more frequent service operating inbound to PABT on some lines during the late morning hours and outbound from PABT during the early and late evening hours. Consult timetable or visit njtransit.com/Bus Holiday Service Guide for details.
On Saturday, December 30, trains will operate on a weekend schedule. Buses will operate on a Saturday schedule with extra inbound service to New York. Consult timetable or visit njtransit.com/Bus Holiday Service Guide for details. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and River LINE will operate on a weekend schedule. Consult njtransit.com for more information.
On New Year’s Eve, Sunday, December 31, trains will operate on a weekend schedule. In the evening, there will be extra train service to New York. Extra train service will be in place to New York and Hoboken from approximately 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. Meadowlands service will be in place for the Giants vs. Redskins game at 1 p.m. Special printable schedules that cover the period from 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve until 6 a.m. on New Year’s morning will be available at njtransit.com during the week of December 18. Rail travel information for New Year’s Eve is also available via the Trip Planner and Station-to-Station features on njtransit.com.
Buses will operate on a Sunday schedule with extra early evening service inbound and extra outbound from PABT after midnight on selected routes. Customers are advised to consult timetables or visit njtransit.com/Bus Holiday Service Guide for more details.
Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule with additional trips operating between Tonnelle Avenue and Hoboken beginning at approximately 5 p.m. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Sunday schedule. River LINE will operate on a Saturday schedule. River LINE and Hudson Bergen Light Rail will both operate additional service after the New Year festivities during the early hours of January 1. Specific trip information will be available on njtransit.com.
IMPORTANT NOTE: NJ TRANSIT is prohibiting all beverages on all of its trains, light rail vehicles and buses on Sunday, December 31, 2017, and the early morning hours of Monday, January 1, 2018. This policy will be strictly enforced.
After midnight (early January 1), additional late-night trains will operate on most rail lines with one-seat ride service available on certain Raritan Valley Line and North Jersey Coast Line trains until approximately 5 a.m. Some trains that normally depart New York/Hoboken/Newark between midnight and 1 a.m. are cancelled and will be replaced with later trains. After 5 a.m., trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule after. Customers should visit njtransit.com for details, including special printable schedules that cover the period from 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve until 6 a.m. on New Year’s morning (which will be available the week of December 18). Expanded bus service will be provided from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) until approximately 2 a.m. Some routes will be departing from alternate areas within the PABT. Visit njtransit.com/Bus Holiday Service Guide for specific schedule details and departure gate assignments.
On New Year’s Day, Monday, January 1, after 5 a.m., trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule. Bus service will vary by route. River LINE will operate on a Sunday schedule. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Bus service will vary by route. Customers are advised to visit njtransit.com for details.
Travel tips
Check Schedules in Advance: Plan your trip online to take advantage of extra trains and buses.
Travel Early: On December 26-29, NJ TRANSIT rail lines will operate on a modified weekday schedule. Avoid the crowds by traveling during the traditional peak-period (6-9 a.m.) when ridership is light.
Allow Extra Travel Time: Traffic congestion during the holidays may affect bus travel times to and from New York City, so customers should plan accordingly.
Ticketing: Purchase round-trip tickets at the start of your trip to speed your return and use the NJ TRANSIT mobile app, which is available for free download on any web-enabled iOS or Android device, to make the purchase even easier. To make a purchase, customers simply install the app and then create an account, which will securely save a customer’s profile information and purchase history for ease of use. Customers can also use ticket vending machines or see a ticket agent, if available, to avoid possible surcharges. Reminder: Bus customers departing Port Authority Bus Terminal must purchase tickets before boarding.
Luggage: Travel as light as possible. Passengers with luggage or packages should use the overhead racks or designated luggage spaces. On multilevel trains, customers with large bags should use the mezzanine levels at the ends of each car.
December 18, 2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, The NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors today approved the purchase of 17 additional dual-powered locomotives manufactured by Bombardier Transit Corporation. The new locomotives will allow NJ TRANSIT Rail Operations to retire some of the oldest locomotives in the fleet to increase mechanical reliability, operational flexibility and efficiency.
“The addition of these new dual-powered locomotives continues our effort to modernize our rail fleet,” said Executive Director Steven H. Santoro. “These locomotives can operate across the entire rail system in either electric or diesel mode providing us with greater versatility and operating efficiency.”
The ALP45 locomotives will replace NJ TRANSIT’s aging fleet of GP40 and F40-series locomotives, which were initially manufactured in the late 1960s. The older locomotives have reached the end of their service life and have become increasingly more expensive to maintain. In addition, the GP40s and F40s are becoming functionally obsolete as a result of their limited pulling power and ability to provide electrical power to the larger, heavier multi-level passenger coaches.
The ALP45 locomotives are designed to operate push-pull passenger train service on both electrified and non-electrified lines at speeds of up to 125 mph in electric mode and up to 100 mph in diesel mode. The locomotives will meet the current EPA Tier IV requirements, reducing emissions compared to the locomotives to be replaced when operating in diesel mode, and producing no emissions when operating in electric mode. The ALP45s offer a significant increase in horsepower, acceleration and available head-end power over the GP40s they will be replacing.
In 2008, the Board of Directors approved a contract with Bombardier Transit Corporation for the purchase of 26 ALP45 dual-powered locomotives, with an option to purchase up to 63 additional locomotives in the future. In July 2011, NJ TRANSIT purchased 9 additional locomotives, increasing the total number of ALP45s to 35. The first locomotive was delivered in December 2011. The introduction of the dual-powered ALP45s in 2011 marked a first for this technology in the United States.
Today, the Board approved the purchase of 17 additional ALP45 locomotives at a total contract authorization of $184.5 million, under the 2008 contract with Bombardier Transit Corporation.
December 17,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, A Hoboken-bound Main Line New Jersey Transit train struck and killed a man west of the Paterson station at about 2 p.m. Saturday. Shutting down main line service for a little under 2 hours .
According to New Jersey Transit no customers were on board when the Main Line train hit the man, who was on the tracks. Train service was suspended between Ridgewood and Kingsland station for the investigation, as of 3:40 p.m. Further delays were caused by Amtrak track work leading to New York Penn Station.
NJ Transit was investigating the incident, and there was no immediate indication why the man was on the tracks.
