Tag: NJ Transit

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New Jersey Transit Looks at Additional Fare Payment Options

Utah Software Engineer Mints Physical Bitcoins

June 14,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, In a continuing effort to improve the customer experience, NJ TRANSIT is taking steps to modernize the fare payment system and offer additional payment options. The proposed upgrades seek to reduce cash and paper-based tickets while providing customers with quick, easy and convenient ways to pay.

“Improving the customer experience has been at the top of my priority list,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Kevin Corbett. “Giving customers the ability to utilize the latest technology to pay fares offers a major convenience to them and multiple benefits including easier payment options, speeding up boarding and making our collection systems more efficient and up to date.”

A contract renewal approved by the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors earlier this year with Conduent Transport Solutions Inc. of Somerset, New Jersey, includes provisions to accept mobile payments, open bank cards and a NJ TRANSIT fare card.

The contract allows NJ TRANSIT and Conduent to develop the future of fare payment systems within the NJ TRANSIT system including:

The acceptance of mobile payments and open contactless bank cards.

A new contactless NJ TRANSIT fare card with options to add cash value to the card at local retailers.

Customer account management through the NJ TRANSIT App or online.

Installation of more than 2,500 validators on the bus fleet and on light rail platforms to accept the contactless fare card, mobile payments and barcodes.

Upgrades to TVMs, ticket office machines and the MyTix sales feature of the Mobile App.

These emerging technologies will incorporate an account based system where customers can manage their account, view ride and ticket history, check balances and add value. Customers who do not have access to mobile payments or contactless bank cards, will achieve the same level of convenience using a contactless NJ TRANSIT fare card. As a result, all customers will experience greater convenience with a tap and ride feel.

The current electronic ticketing through the Mobile App will continue to be used, upgraded and expanded. The contactless fare card is a great option for our cash customers and would be a complement to the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, MyTix ticketing.

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NJ Transit Moves forward on Positive Train Control (PTC) equipment on its rail fleet

Ridgewood-Trainstation1_theridgewoodblog

June 5,2018

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, While NJ TRANSIT continues to install Positive Train Control (PTC) equipment on its rail fleet, adjustments to weekday schedules are needed to allow for hardware components to be installed on locomotives and cab cars. Beginning Monday, June 4, some weekday trains will be temporarily discontinued or have changes to their origin and/or destinations.

These changes will primarily impact customers along the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line, Morris & Essex Lines and Pascack Valley Line and may affect customers connecting with these services. Other trains throughout the system will have schedule and/or station stop changes. These schedule adjustments are temporary and will be restored in early 2019. There are no changes planned for weekend service.

NJ TRANSIT’s highest priority is safety and the proper installation of Positive Train Control (PTC). As we progress with the implementation of this critical safety enhancement feature, it is important to remember that NJ TRANSIT remains a safe rail system and will continue to operate safely until PTC is fully implemented.

Positive Train Control (PTC) is technology to enhance rail safety by monitoring and controlling train movements. Using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, Wi-Fi and high band radio transmission, PTC is capable of automatically controlling train speeds and movements, thereby reducing the risk of accidents due to human error.
The Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008, passed by Congress, requires the implementation of a PTC system on all non-exempt commuter railroads, including NJ TRANSIT. PTC is intended to prevent:

Train-to-train collisions;
Derailments caused by excessive speed;
Unauthorized train movements in work zones; and
Movement of trains through switches left in the wrong position.

As a new technology, PTC requires design, development, prototype testing, equipment retrofitting and system-wide track implementation.

 

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NJ TRANSIT DEPLOYS NEW FARE COLLECTION TECHNOLOGY ON TRAINS

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Pilot Program Will Provide Handheld Mobile Devices to Train Crews for Ticket Validation and Improved Onboard Communications

May 20,2018

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ,  NJ TRANSIT is going high-tech with fare collection on trains. A pilot program is launching in which select train crews will use handheld mobile devices to scan and validate tickets.

“As part of our effort to restore NJ TRANSIT as a national leader, we are utilizing the latest technology to improve our processes and ultimately improve the customer experience,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Kevin Corbett. “Not only will these handheld devices scan and validate tickets, they’ll also have the capability of giving crews real time information to enhance customer communication.”

As part of the pilot program launching this week, a small number of train crews across multiple rail lines will begin utilizing the handheld mobile devices. Crew members will use the devices to scan the barcodes on all paper and electronic tickets, including monthly passes. Once a ticket is scanned, a crew member will instantly be able to determine if the ticket is valid. One-way tickets would have their barcodes cancelled electronically to ensure they are not used again. Currently, crews visually inspect all electronic tickets and paper passes and use manual punches to cancel paper tickets.

By scanning all ticket types, NJ TRANSIT will have improved capability to collect and analyze data including fare collection and ridership trends. Electronic scanning also combats against the use of fraudulent tickets.

The handheld devices will support future applications including providing real time communication with conductors to enhance the flow of information to customers. Electronic scanning also provides future capability of enabling offline electronic ticketing, which would no longer require customers to have internet access to activate electronic tickets.

The pilot program will collect feedback on the handheld mobile devices and make refinements before initiating a gradual systemwide rollout.

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Cardinale Bill Calling for Congressional Assistance in Funding Positive Train Control Systems Moves Forward

Ridgewood Train Station

file photo by ArtChick

May 12,2018
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, The Senate Transportation Committee passed legislation sponsored by Senator Gerry Cardinale (R-39) which encourages the federal government to assist with implementing Positive Train Control (PTC) technology on New Jersey railways.

Sen. Gerry Cardinale’s legislation encourages the federal government to assist with implementing PTC technology on New Jersey railways. (SenateNJ.com)

“By repeatedly underfunding large scale train safety projects, Congress is placing the lives of New Jerseyans at risk,” Cardinale said. “With technological advances that remove human error, such as positive train control, we are able to safeguard passengers and our communities from future train derailments and crashes.”

Positive Train Control (PTC) is a safety system designed to automatically stop a train. It has the ability to prevent accidents like collisions and derailments by slowing the train without input from an engineer on board, removing the possible human error.

On average, 2 million passengers are transported by NJ Transit’s train and light rail systems each week.

Cardinale’s legislation, SJR-12, urges the federal government to take decisive and swift measures to assist with the implementation of positive train control technology on New Jersey railways.

Additionally, the bill requests, if necessary, to extend the deadline for the installation of positive train control technology.

As of December 31, 2017, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) noted in a letter to NJ Transit that the FRA was concerned that NJ Transit would not meet the December 31, 2018 deadline. NJ Transit has only installed required hardware on 35 of the 440 locomotives in the NJ Transit fleet and had only trained 143 of 1,100 employees on the new system.

“We pay a high price by failing to implement this lifesaving train technology, as we saw with the crash in Hoboken,” Cardinale added. “Today, we continue our efforts to encourage Congress to deliver the necessary funding to provide the safest ride possible for our commuters. ”

The legislation now heads to the full Senate for a vote.

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NJ TRANSIT OFFERS EXTRA BUS SERVICE FROM RIDGEWOOD TO NEW YORK FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

ridgewood bus station

file photo

Beverages will not be permitted on any train, light rail vehicle or bus

March 16,2018

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, NJ TRANSIT will operate extra bus service on selected routes to and from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) on Saturday, March 17, to accommodate customers traveling to the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City. Trains will operate on a regular weekend schedule. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule.

IMPORTANT NOTE: No beverages of any kind, in any type of container, open or closed, will be permitted on board trains, buses or light rail vehicles on Saturday, March 17, and Sunday, March 18. This policy will be strictly enforced.

NJ TRANSIT will have Ambassadors on hand at Secaucus Junction, Aberdeen/Matawan, Middletown, N.J., and Penn Station New York to assist customers traveling to/from the parade in New York City.

Extra trips to and from New York will be offered on the following bus routes:

To New York – PABT:

No. 163 (Ridgewood – New York) additional local trips from Hackensack (Summit Ave. and Essex St.) to PABT from 8:20 a.m. until 11:20 a.m. operating via the Boulevard in Hasbrouck Heights, Wood-Ridge, Carlstadt, and East Rutherford.

From New York – PABT:

No. 163 (New York – Ridgewood) additional local service from PABT to Hackensack (Arcola in Paramus) operating local route through East Rutherford, Carlstadt, Wood-Ridge, Hasbrouck Heights and Hackensack every hour beginning at 3:15 p.m. to 10:15 p.m.

Travel Tips

Ticketing: To speed your return, purchase round-trip tickets at the start of your trip from bus operators inbound to New York or at ticket vending machines where available. Bus customers departing Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) are reminded that tickets must be purchased before boarding the bus.
Allow Extra Travel Time: Traffic congestion before and after the parade may affect bus travel times to New York City. Customers should plan accordingly.
Parking: Customers traveling from Park/Rides at Allwood Road, North Bergen, Willowbrook Mall, Mothers and Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center are advised that parking fees still apply.
IMPORTANT NOTE: No beverages, in any type of container, open or closed, will be permitted on any train to and from New York/Hoboken. This policy will be strictly enforced. Beverages of any kind are prohibited at all times on board buses.

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BREAKING UPDATE : RETURN TO FULL SERVICE FOR NJ TRANSIT

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TRANSIT ALERT UPDATE: NJT trains are subject to up to 60-minute delays following a pedestrian strike earlier this morning in #Secaucus. Amtrak says a train carrying 135 passengers from New York City to Savannah, Georgia hit a trespasser shortly after 6 a.m. The tracks between Newark Penn Station and New York Penn Station have partially reopened but police are still on the scene investigating. Midtown trains are being diverted to Hoboken. Cross-honoring is in effect for NJ Transit buses and #PATH at Newark Penn Station, Hoboken and 33rd street in Manhattan.

March 9,2018

rthe staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ,  NJ TRANSIT rail, bus, light rail and Access Link services will all operate on a regular weekday schedule for Friday, March 9, 2018. Rail, bus, and light rail crews, along with the New Jersey Transit Police Department, worked continuously to prepare for, and recover from, the devastating effects of this powerful storm that caused significant impacts across our entire transportation network.

For the latest travel information, customers should visit njtransit.com, access NJ TRANSIT’s Twitter feed at @NJTRANSIT or listen to broadcast traffic reports. Additionally, NJ TRANSIT will provide the most current service information via the My Transit alert system (www.njtransit.com/mytransit), which delivers travel advisories to your smartphone. Service information is also available by calling (973) 275-5555.

Due to the freeze/thaw cycle, customers are advised to use extreme caution around bus stops, station and facilities as slippery conditions may exist. Customers should also build extra travel time into their schedules as residual delays and some cancellations may occur from the residual effects of the storm.

NJ TRANSIT crews removed well over 100 trees and branches which blocked rail tracks across the state in order to restore service. To get to the affected areas, crews had to walk in significant amounts of snow, up to 20 inches in some cases, to remove these trees and branches.

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NJ Transit will be Cross-honoring During Impending Storm

Ridgewood _Train_station_theridgewoodblog

March 2,2018

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, NJ TRANSIT anticipates regular weekday service on its rail, bus and light rail systems for the service day on Friday, March 2 and regular weekend service on Saturday, March 3 as parts of the state are subject to an intense Nor’easter with coastal flooding, high winds, heavy rain, and even snow in northwestern New Jersey predicted. Cross-honoring is in effect for rail, bus and private carriers and light rail for Friday, March 2 and Saturday, March 3.

Bus Route Nos. 196/197 only bus tickets and passes will be accepted during this time on the Port Jervis Line trains to/from Harriman, Tuxedo and Sloatsburg. Additionally, Shortline Bus will also cross-honor in Orange County, N.Y. The Warwick plan will be instituted if conditions warrant.

NJ TRANSIT will have personnel and assets in position to address any issues that may arise during or after the storm, which is expected to bring strong wind near the coast and flooding to low-lying areas.

NJ TRANSIT’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will open during the early morning hours on Friday and key personnel will monitor any impacts on the system throughout the duration of the storm.

Customers are strongly advised to monitor the status of the system by checking njtransit.com frequently. Customers are also encouraged to sign up for My Transit Alerts, which provide customized notifications via email or text message based on a customer’s preferred mode of travel. My Transit alerts can be accessed by creating a free account on njtransit.com. In addition, customers are advised to monitor NJ TRANSIT’s social media feeds on Twitter and Facebook, as well as tune in to broadcast traffic reports for the latest information.

Important Notes:

Cross-honoring will be in effect for Friday, March 2 and Saturday, March 3 on NJ TRANSIT bus and private carriers, rail and light rail services. At this time, it is not anticipated that there will be cross-honoring on PATH or NY Waterway ferries.

Regular weekday service for rail, bus, light rail and Access Link will operate as long as conditions allow.

Bus Route Nos. 196 and 197 only bus tickets and passes will be accepted during this time on the Port Jervis Line at the Harriman, Tuxedo, and Sloatsburg Stations. Shortline bus will also be cross-honoring. The Warwick plan will be instituted if conditions warrant.

Before starting your trip, visit the Travel Alerts page at njtransit.com for up-to-the-minute service information. This information is also available by calling (973) 275-5555 or from broadcast traffic reports.

Customers are encouraged to sign up for the My Transit alert system on njtransit.com, which delivers travel advisories for your specific trip to your cell phone.

Allow extra time getting to and from your destination. Use extreme caution when walking on exposed sidewalks or station platforms and when boarding trains and buses.

Listen closely to public address announcements at stations for late-breaking service information.

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NJ Transit Environmental Review to Move forward with Hudson-Bergen Light Rail expansion

NJT light rail

 

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.

 

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NJ TRANSIT TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL DUAL-POWERED LOCOMOTIVES

ridgewood train station

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.

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NJ TRANSIT SAYS LEAVE YOUR BOOZE AT HOME DURING SANTACON

SantaCon

December 9, 2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, just a reminder if you are traveling in and out of the city today ,be it for SantCon or not ,NJ TRANSIT is prohibiting liquid beverages on all of its trains, light rail vehicles and buses on Saturday December 9th and the early morning of Sunday December 10th to coincide with the annual SantaCon event in New York City.

NJT says ,”This policy will be strictly enforced. ”

Reminder: All beverages, including alcohol, are not permitted on NJ TRANSIT buses at any time regardless of event.

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NJ TRANSIT DEPLOYS AQUATRACK UNITS FOR FALL LEAF CLEANING

lasttraintoclarksville_theridgewoodblog

October 16,2017

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, NJ TRANSIT is once again waging its annual battle against Mother Nature and fallen leaves on the rails.  NJ TRANSIT is deploying its two AquaTrack machines throughout the fall season.

The AquaTrack equipment is a high-pressure power-washing system which removes leaves and oily residue from the tracks in an effort to prevent train delays caused by “slippery rail” conditions.

Last year, NJ TRANSIT unveiled its second AquaTrack unit which allows the cleaning process to maintain a larger coverage area in helping to prevent delays.

“While there is no way to completely eliminate the effect Mother Nature has on the railroad, the AquaTrack units have had great success in managing leaf-related slippage on our rails,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Steve Santoro.  “By utilizing these two highly specialized pieces of equipment, we can keep the rails free and clear of fallen leaves, increasing safety and keeping trains running on time.”

Fallen leaves left on rail tracks can cause a condition known as “slippery rail” – a challenge facing all railroads in the Northeast and other parts of the world where deciduous trees are prevalent.  The decaying leaves create an oily residue that coats the rails and causes poor traction.  The decreased train speeds, in turn, create delays.

The AquaTrack system has been in use by NJ TRANSIT since October 2003.  It consists of two 250-horsepower diesel-engine units mounted on a flat car with an operator control cab.  Two pressure-pump units dispense water up to 20,000 pounds-per-square-inch directly to the top of the rail.  The process uses 17 gallons of water per minute.

The original AquaTrack operated primarily on the M&E and Montclair-Boonton lines, which face particular challenges including the hilly areas around Glen Ridge and Summit stations, washing the rails twice a day Monday through Friday—once overnight and again during midday hours.  On weekends, the Pascack Valley and Main/Bergen County lines are usually covered.  The addition of a second unit last year added cleaning on the Raritan Valley and North Jersey Coast Lines.

In addition to AquaTrack, NJ TRANSIT strategically spreads sand on the rails in front of peak-period trains to increase traction.  NJ TRANSIT also trims trees to help stem the amount of leaves on the tracks.  The leaf clearing operation runs from mid-October through mid-December.

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NJ TRANSIT ADDING CAPACITY DUE TO EXPECTED HOLLAND TUNNEL TRAFFIC

Ridgewood Train Station

file photo by ArtChick

Select Bus Routes May See Significant Delays Following Lane Closures on Nearby New Jersey Route 139 Ramp After Fire

October 2, 2017

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ,  Beginning Monday, October 2, NJ TRANSIT is adding capacity to select bus routes and the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR)  due to anticipated traffic congestion near the Holland Tunnel as a result of lane closures and emergency repair work on the Rt. 139 ramp. Select bus routes may experience significant delays.

In anticipation of increased ridership on mass transit, NJ TRANSIT is providing additional capacity on the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) between the West Side Ave. park-and-ride and Hoboken Terminal between 6:00-9:30 a.m. and 3:30-7:00 p.m.  This will provide additional capacity and more connectivity to PATH service at Exchange Place, Newport and Hoboken Terminal.

In addition, NJ TRANSIT is adding capacity to bus routes along the Route 9 corridor in/out of the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York in the morning and afternoon peak periods.  Customers may also use the North Jersey Coast Line rail service as an alternate but must purchase those rail tickets.  Customers are advised to travel before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 a.m. for optimal seating capacity.

Customers on the 120 and 64J bus routes are being advised to expect potentially significant delays in the morning and evening peak periods and should allow for extra travel time.
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NJ TRANSIT ADOPTS FISCAL YEAR 2018 OPERATING, CAPITAL BUDGETS WITH MAJOR FOCUS ON INFRASTRUCTURE AND RELIABILITY

Ridgewood Train Station

Operating budget keeps fares stable; Capital budget continues financial commitment to enhance overall customer experience

July 13,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood

Ridgewood NJ,  The NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors today adopted a Fiscal Year 2018 (FY 2018) operating budget and capital program that supports continued investments in infrastructure and equipment to maintain the system in a state of good repair and enhance the overall customer experience.

“NJ TRANSIT is moving forward with a balanced budget that reflects a laser-like look at individual business lines in order to maximize efficiencies and maintain a safe transportation system,” NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Steven H. Santoro. “As transit professionals, we owe our customers and stakeholders a solid plan that has the least impact on our riders.  After much hard work, I am confident we delivered on that.”

The Board adopted a $2.218 billion operating budget and a $1.367 billion capital program for Fiscal Year 2018.

Almost half of the revenue in the FY 2018 operating budget comes from passenger revenue ($1.014 billion), supported by a comparable amount from state and federal program reimbursements ($947.7 million) with the balance from a combination of commercial revenues ($115.2 million) and state operating assistance ($140.9 million).

The capital program calls for continued investment in the state’s transit infrastructure to maintain a continued state-of-good-repair and provide reliable transit service.

Operating Budget

The FY 2018 operating budget reflects an increase of state and federal reimbursements, which will enable NJ TRANSIT to meet the agency’s projected expenses this fiscal year.  Approximately 61 percent of the operating budget is dedicated to labor and fringe benefits costs.  Other significant expenses include materials and supplies and purchased transportation, which equal 25 percent of the operating budget.

Overall passenger revenue and commercial revenue represents approximately 51 percent of the total revenue.

Capital Program

The FY 2018 capital program continues to prioritize investment in infrastructure to maintain an overall state of good repair, enhance safety and reliability, and improve the overall customer experience on the system.

With the FY 2018 capital program, NJ TRANSIT continues its financial commitment to Positive Train Control.

The program continues to invest in railroad bridge rehabilitation, track replacement, signal upgrades, repairs to overhead power lines and electric substations as well as investments into the state-of-good-repair of the Northeast Corridor (NEC),
the agency’s most utilized rail line.

Approximately 53 percent of the program funds the basic capital program improvements needed to maintain and improve the transit system, including $201 million in rail infrastructure needs and $109 million in rail rolling stock improvements.

Other highlights of the program include $47 million in rail station improvements:  $3 million for Cranford Station; $9 million for Elizabeth Station; $18 million for Perth Amboy Station; $2 million for Roselle Park Station; and $6 million for other station and terminal improvements, inspections and repairs.

The program also supports continued investment in the light rail system with $168 million being invested in bus and light rail infrastructure improvements: $99 million for replacement vehicles; $11 million for the Capital Asset Replacement Programs for both the Newark Light Rail and Hudson-Bergen Light Rail systems; and $17 million for bus passenger facilities and bus support facilities/equipment.

In addition, this budget allows for $86 million to be invested in system-wide improvements including: $9 million in technology improvements and $6 million for safety improvements; $33 million in system expansion improvements, including $29 million for Northern Branch Expansion and $4 million for the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Route 440 Improvement.

Approximately 50 percent of the capital budget comes from the Transportation Trust Fund (TTF), with 47 percent from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and 3 percent from other sources.

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NJ TRANSIT TO FOCUS ON PASSENGER SAFETY DURING NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH

Ridgewood -bus-station-theridgewoodblog
June 5,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, NJ TRANSIT is joining with the National Safety Council and numerous other organizations across the country in recognizing National Safety Month during the month of June.   Safety is the utmost priority for the corporation and NJ TRANSIT recognizes that collaboration between the agency and the public is necessary to effectively promote safe choices around the public transportation system.

“The safety of our customers and employees remains our top priority,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Steven H. Santoro.  “That’s why we have been so focused on having Amtrak perform critical infrastructure repairs at Penn Station New York to ensure the reliability of the tracks, which serve as the foundation of safety for tens of thousands of customers each and every day.”

“We can use this month to be reminded of some simple ‘do’s and don’ts’ which will further promote a safe environment for our customers and our employees,” Santoro said.

“NJ TRANSIT is spreading the message of safety everywhere,’’ said Office of System Safety Chief Gardner Tabon. “National Safety Month is a time when we reinforce our face-to-face engagements, inform and educate employees, customers, motorists and others of safety protocols and risky behaviors by visiting them at selected work sites, by printing messages on pay stubs and by hanging posters in visible locations. These reminders promote the idea that we all share in the responsibility of staying safe.’’

Following are some important safety tips for everyone:

Rail and Light Rail Safety:

Never take a short cut along, around or across rail tracks.
Only cross railroad tracks in clearly-identified, designated areas where there are lights, signs and grade crossings.
Always stand behind the yellow safety line when waiting on the station platform.
Do not lean on train doors and stand clear as the doors open and close.
No running or playing on platforms or around tracks.
Listen to train personnel and watch your steps when boarding and exiting a train.

Bus Safety:
When waiting for and riding a bus:

Use designated crosswalks and sidewalks to reach the bus stop.
Never run after a bus; you may slip and fall, or may be struck by another vehicle.
Wait for the bus at designated stops and stand two to three feet from the curb.
Hold handrails while boarding the bus.
Stand behind the white line when the bus is in motion.

NJ TRANSIT will be increasing safety advertising and handouts onboard bus, rail and light rail vehicles. During the month, NJ TRANSIT will be hosting employee safety day events at various work sites to remind employees of the importance of safety protocols.

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NJ TRANSIT KICKS OFF SUMMER WITH ‘EARLY GETAWAY’ SERVICE AND DISCOUNTED TRAVEL PACKAGES

ArtChick_jersey_shore_theridgewoodblog
May 22,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ,  NJ TRANSIT will kick off the Memorial Day weekend with “early getaway” rail and bus service on Friday, May 26, for the benefit of customers leaving work early.  To help speed the getaway, customers are reminded that they can enjoy the convenience of purchasing tickets through the MyTix feature of the NJ TRANSIT mobile app.   Besides giving customers a jump on the unofficial start of summer, NJ TRANSIT is making it easy and affordable to get to fun in the sun around the state with a variety of discounted packages.

Friday, May 26:

Extra outbound trains will operate on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast, Raritan Valley, Morris & Essex, and Port Jervis lines starting at approximately 1 p.m.
One outbound Pascack Valley train (#9653, leaving Hoboken at 2:58 p.m.) will extend its existing service to terminate in Spring Valley.
Extra buses will operate from the Port Authority Bus Terminal on more than two dozen bus routes starting around noon.  Visit njtransit.com for details.
All light rail systems will operate on regular weekday schedules.

Saturday, May 27 and Sunday, May 28:

Rail:

The Bay Head-Long Branch shuttle is enhanced to hourly service (8 a.m.-10 p.m.)

Bus:

Weekend shuttle service resumes between Toms River and Seaside Park on bus route no. 137.  The bus leaves Toms River at 11:25 a.m. with the return departure from Seaside Park at 6:25 p.m. This service runs every weekend and holiday through the end of June, when direct service resumes from New York on bus route no. 137 and Newark bus route no. 67.  See schedule for details.

Light Rail:

Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule.
Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday and Sunday schedule, respectively.
River Line will operate on a Saturday and Sunday schedule, respectively.

Memorial Day, Monday, May 29:

Rail:

Trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule on all lines.
The Bay Head-Long Branch shuttle is enhanced to hourly service (8 a.m.-10 p.m.)

Bus:

Bus schedules vary by route—customers are advised to check their timetables or visit njtransit.com for schedule information.  Many routes serving shopping malls will operate on weekend/holiday schedules.  Consult timetable for details.  NOTE: Buses may be subject to detours and service delays for Memorial Day parades through various towns.  See njtransit.com for details.

Light Rail:

Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule.
Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule.
River Line will operate on a Sunday schedule.

Summer Savings
With Memorial Day marking the “unofficial” start of the summer recreational season, this weekend is a great time for customers to take advantage of NJ TRANSIT’s discounted travel packages to destinations including the Jersey Shore, Six Flags, Monmouth Park and Liberty Science Center:

Beach Packages:  Board a train anywhere on NJ TRANSIT’s rail system, excluding Atlantic City Rail Line stations and save up to $5.00 on admission to one of five beaches— Long Branch, Asbury Park, Ocean Grove, Bradley Beach and Belmar—by purchasing round-trip train fare and a discounted beach pass for one price at NJ TRANSIT ticket vending machines (choose “Beach/Monmouth Park Packages” and select “Beach Package”) or at ticket windows.  Beach Packages will be available for weekends and holidays from May 27 through June 18 and then daily starting Monday, June 19 and continuing through Labor Day, Monday, September 4.

Six Flags Great Adventure and Safari or Hurricane Harbor:  Save up to $32 by purchasing round-trip bus transportation and park admission together.

NJ TRANSIT provides express bus service to Six Flags from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York and Newark Penn Station.

Monmouth Park:  Save $5.50 when you travel to Monmouth Park Racetrack.  Simply purchase a package to Monmouth Park from NJ TRANSIT ticket vending machines (choose “Beach/Monmouth Park Packages” and select “Monmouth Park Racetrack”) or at ticket windows from any NJ TRANSIT station, except Atlantic City Rail Line, and receive round-trip transportation, Grandstand Admission and an official track program for $3.50 plus the regular cost of a round-trip rail ticket.

Liberty Science Center:  Save $5 per person for up to four general admission, combo ticket and/or all-access passes when you travel on NJ TRANSIT and show your ticket, pass or fare receipt at Liberty Science Center.  General admission passes include live science demonstrations, hands-on labs, and a variety of daily activities.  Combo and all-access passes provide options for films and premium exhibits.

Visit njtransit.com for more information on NJ TRANSIT summer travel deals.

On weekends, kids ride free on NJ TRANSIT

Every weekend, families riding NJ TRANSIT can save with the Family SuperSaver Fare, which allows two children 11 and younger to travel free with each fare-paying adult.  For the Memorial Day holiday weekend, the program will be extended and in effect from 7 p.m. Friday, May 26 until 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 30.

Travel tips

Check Schedules in Advance:  Plan your trip online to take advantage of extra trains and buses.
Allow Extra Travel Time:  Traffic congestion during the long holiday weekend may affect bus travel times especially on routes using the Garden State Parkway heading down the shore, so customers should plan accordingly.
Ticketing:  Purchase round-trip tickets at the start of your trip to speed your return.  Use the MyTix feature on the NJ TRANSIT mobile app, ticket vending machines or see a ticket agent, if available, to avoid possible surcharges.  Bus customers departing Port Authority Bus Terminal are reminded that tickets must be purchased before boarding the bus.
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.