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New Jersey Transit Will Offer Extra Service For New Year’s Celebrations!

nyc-times-square-new-year-eve[1]

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.

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NJ TRANSIT’S MOBILE APP UPGRADE PROVIDES MORE TICKET OPTIONS

MyTix app

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.

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NJ TRANSIT OFFERS EXTRA SERVICE AND SAVINGS FOR HOLIDAY WEEK

Ridgewood_Train_station_train-_is_coming_theridgewoodblog

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.

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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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Hoboken-bound Main Line New Jersey Transit train struck and killed a man west of the Paterson station Saturday

Ridgewood_Train_station_train-_is_coming_theridgewoodblog

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.

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Port Authority Evacuated During Morning Rush Due to Explosion

suicide bomb port authority

December 11,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

New York, New York , according to New York Police sources a would-be suicide bomber detonated an explosive device underground near the bustling Port Authority Bus Terminal is a former New York City cab driver who told investigators he carried out the attack for revenge, law enforcement sources said. Subways were rerouted this morning and the Port Authority Bus Station was evacuated during the morning rush.

There were also disruptions on the Seventh and Eighth Avenue lines, as well as the shuttle between Grand Central Station and Times Square. Service should return to normal before evening rush hour, transit officials said.

The bomber Akayed Ullah, 27, is believed to be from Bangladesh and was living in Brooklyn, told authorities in sum and substance from his hospital bed: “They’ve been bombing in my country and I wanted to do damage here,” sources said.

Ullah, who officials say is a former city cab driver whose license has lapsed, set off a “low-tech” what some have described as a homemade pipe bomb strapped to his midsection around 7:20 a.m. inside the subway passageway between West 42nd Street and Eighth Avenue and West 42nd Street and Seventh Avenue.

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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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New Jersey Transit Issues Beverage Ban During Santacon

nj_transit_windows9449

December 6, 2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, 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.

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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New Jersey Transit Says It’s Prepped for Winter

Snow Blizzard of 2016 Ridgewood CBD

file photo by Boyd Loving

December 6,2017

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, NJ TRANSIT is giving customers a new tool this season in the annual battle with Old Man Winter. When inclement weather limits train service, customers will be able to use new Severe Weather Schedules to clearly identify their travel options and keep moving through the snow and ice.

“In the midst of winter weather, visibility outside may be low, but we want our customers to have a clear picture of how much service we can safely operate and when their next train will be departing,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Steven H. Santoro. “Our operations divisions statewide have prepared the transit system, equipment and facilities, and these Severe Weather Schedules allow our customers to be prepared as well.”

During severe weather events, or other emergency situations, NJ TRANSIT may need to operate a limited weekday rail schedule, which will be designated as “Severe Weather Schedule – Level 1” or “Severe Weather Schedule – Level 2.” Customers will be informed through MyTransit alerts, social media, NJ TRANSIT’s website and mobile app as well as broadcast and print media when a Severe Weather Schedule is implemented

“Severe Weather Schedule-Level 1” and “Severe Weather Schedule-Level 2” are now available for viewing, downloading and printing at njtransit.com. Printed severe weather schedules will be available December 7th at select stations, terminals and Customer Service offices.

Customers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Severe Weather Schedules in the event that conditions warrant their implementation.

Snow fighting supplies and equipment across the state are stocked and ready to be deployed as conditions warrant. NJ TRANSIT is busy inspecting and winterizing its infrastructure, equipment and stations to be in the best possible position to handle winter’s potential fury.

NJ TRANSIT Preparations for Winter Weather

Rail Operations

Hundreds of rail cars and locomotives have been “winterized,” a process that includes checking onboard heating systems, ventilation, thermostats, weather stripping and electronic components, as well as changing locomotive filters and fuel from a summer blend to a winter blend.
NJ TRANSIT’s preventative maintenance program also includes the inspection and winter maintenance of more than 750 switches and switch heaters, overhead wire systems, 12 moveable bridges and wayside power at storage yards and terminals.
Two jet-engine-powered snow blowers are available to remove ice and snow from tracks and critical switching areas. In addition, all locomotives are equipped with snowplows to clear snow from the rails.
NJ TRANSIT Rail Operations has 20,000 pounds of salt on hand with the ability to obtain an additional 100,000 pounds, if needed.
In addition, our year-round tree trimming program proactively minimizes downed trees or limbs along the right-of-way and on our overhead electrical system, personnel are on standby to quickly respond to reports of trees or limbs that could damage overhead wires or prevent safe passage of trains. Our year-round tree trimming program is part of our preventative maintenance program.

Bus Operations

Bus maintenance personnel have checked the heating systems, engine fluids, tires, windshield wipers, doors and airbrake systems on NJ TRANSIT’s 2,200 buses.
Bus snow-fighting equipment has been readied and ice/snow-inhibiting supplies have been restocked for winter to keep 52 bus loops, terminals and lots cleared throughout the state.
NJ TRANSIT Bus Operations has 900 tons of bulk salt on standby statewide, with each of its 16 garages stocked with bag salt.

Light Rail Operations

Snowplows are ready to clear station platforms and park/ride lots.
Switch heaters have been tested throughout NJ TRANSIT’s three light rail systems.
Necessary supplies such as calcium chloride, snow shovels, and scrapers are available and strategically located on the system.
Snow blowers and backup generators have been checked to ensure they are in working order.
Subcontractors are under contract to assist work crews in clearing all light rail stations, walkways, and park/ride facilities.
Management staff for all three lines will be coordinating with local municipalities to discuss snow removal in the light rail’s downtown ‘street running’ territory.

Stations and Terminals

All rail stations equipped with heaters have been inspected to ensure that they are in proper working order.
All public address systems at rail stations and bus terminals have been inspected.

Travel Advice:

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.
Report slippery or unsafe conditions to bus operators, train crews or
NJ TRANSIT staff.
Listen closely to public address announcements at stations for late-breaking service information.

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New Jersey Transit Offers Early Getaway Service for Thanksgiving Week and Extra Service on Thanksgiving Day

Ridgewood_Train_station_train _is_coming_theridgewoodblog

November 18, 2017

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Thanksgiving is a time of family and food and NJ TRANSIT is offering additional trains and buses this Thanksgiving and to make it even easier for customers to unite with family and friends, travel to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, or get started on holiday shopping at various malls throughout the state. Plus, feel free to bring your holiday helpers as kids ride free* the entire long weekend!

NJ TRANSIT will once again offer “early getaway” rail and bus service on Wednesday, November 22, for the benefit of customers leaving work early, and to provide additional capacity for customers traveling to Newark Liberty International Airport. The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is typically the busiest day of the year at Newark Airport’s rail station, with ridership levels about twice that of a typical weekday. Customers are urged to purchase their tickets early – round trip preferably – to avoid lines or download NJ TRANSIT’s mobile app available free at the App Store and Google Play.

On Thanksgiving Day, November 23, NJ TRANSIT will add extra trains and buses to the schedule in the morning and midday hours to accommodate customers traveling to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Then on Friday, November 24, traditionally the busiest shopping day of the year, enhanced bus service will be offered to shopping centers throughout New Jersey and additional trains will operate to and from New York.

NJ TRANSIT customer service representatives and volunteers will be deployed at major facilities throughout the holiday weekend to assist customers with their travels.

For complete schedule and fare information, customers may visit njtransit.com or call 973-275-5555.

On Wednesday, November 22, trains will operate on a weekday schedule on all 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, Pascack Valley and Port Jervis lines. Newark Light Rail, Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and River Line Light Rail service will operate on a weekday schedule. Bus schedules vary by route—customers are advised to check their timetables or visit njtransit.com for schedule information. Selected routes will operate on special holiday schedules to match service with ridership demand, including early getaway service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal and on the No. 64 and 68 bus routes from the Hudson River waterfront between noon and 4:30 p.m. to accommodate the heaviest travel, with less frequent service during the traditional rush hour and later in the evening due to lower ridership. Special holiday timetables are available on njtransit.com.

On Thanksgiving Day, November 23, trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule. To accommodate customers traveling to and from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, NJ TRANSIT will add extra trains on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast, Raritan Valley, Morris & Essex and Port Jervis lines. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule; Newark Light Rail and River Line will operate on a Sunday schedule. Holiday bus schedules vary by route—bus customers are advised to visit njtransit.com. Selected bus routes will operate extra service to and from the Port Authority Bus Terminal for customers attending the parade.

Note: Thanksgiving shoppers: Service on the No. 111 bus route from New York to the Jersey Gardens Mall in Elizabeth will begin operating at 8:15 a.m. Thanksgiving morning, November 23. The No. 40 will operate on a special holiday schedule serving Jersey Gardens all night long. Service on the No. 163, 171, 175 & 770 bus routes to Garden State Plaza in Paramus will operate on a Saturday schedule to serve the mall all day.

On Friday, November 24, one of the busiest shopping days of the year, trains will operate on a modified weekday schedule on all rail lines with additional New York-bound trains between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast and Morris & Essex lines. Customers are encouraged to travel early, if possible, when ridership is light. There will be adjustments to morning peak period service on the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Lines, with select trains either not operating or combined with other trains due to expected light ridership. Customers should visit the printable schedule page at njtransit.com or use the “Station-to-Station Trip Planner” for Friday’s rail schedules. 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 weekday schedule. Holiday bus schedules vary by route—customers are advised to visit njtransit.com.

Extra bus service to New Jersey malls

Starting Friday, November 24 and continuing through December 26, NJ TRANSIT will offer additional bus service to major New Jersey shopping destinations to accommodate extended store hours and busy shopping times throughout the day. Throughout the holiday shopping season, extra trips or expanded service will be offered on several bus routes serving malls and shopping centers throughout the state, including Garden State Plaza, Jersey Gardens, Livingston Mall, Harmon Meadow/Mill Creek in Secaucus, Willowbrook Mall, Wayne Towne Center Mall and West Belt Mall.

*Kids ride free on NJT

For the Thanksgiving holiday, NJ TRANSIT’s Family Super Saver Fare, which allows up to two children 11 and younger to travel free with each fare-paying adult, will be in effect from 7 p.m. Wednesday, November 22 until 6 a.m. Monday, November 27.

NJT Travel Tips :

Check Schedules in Advance: Additional service will be provided on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Plan your trip online to take advantage of extra trains and buses.
Travel Early on Friday, November 24: On Friday, NJ TRANSIT rail lines will operate on a modified weekday schedule with additional trains during the late morning hours. 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. Use 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.
Bus Gate Changes: Some gate changes have been made at Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York. Customers are reminded to check the public timetable for new departure gate information.

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AMTRAK: Major Work to Impact New York Penn Station in January 

Ridgewood_Train_station_train _is_coming_theridgewoodblog

 

Two A.M. Peak and Three P.M. Peak Trains To Be Affected On NEC and NJCL Beginning January 8

November 14, 2017

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 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.

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60 Minute Delays Anticipated due to Amtrak Signal Work between Newark and Secaucus – Friday, November 10 to Sunday, November 12, 2017

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November 10,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Beginning at approximately 9 p.m. Friday, November 10 and continuing through the end of service day on Sunday, November 12, customers traveling on the Northeast Corridor (NEC) and North Jersey Coast Line (NJCL) trains may be subject to delays of up to 60 minutes in both directions. The Amtrak work will require signals near Newark Penn Station to be taken out of service, requiring trains to operate at restricted speeds.

To minimize train congestion in Newark Penn Station during the Amtrak work, customers on the Raritan Valley Line will have substitute busing in place to/from Newark Penn Station as follows:

Friday, November 10 (from 9 p.m. through end of service day) – Between Cranford and Newark

Saturday, November 11 and Sunday, November 12 (entire service day) – Between Union and Newark

To accommodate this signal work and manage train traffic through the area, NJ TRANSIT will not operate the Northeast Corridor 7600 series trains between Rahway and Penn Station New York.  Customers will be accommodated by the following train which is scheduled 5-10 minutes behind the 7600 series.  Those trains will add a station stop at North Elizabeth.

Customers on these three rail lines (NEC, NJCL and RVL) are advised to allow for extra time to and from their destinations.  Customers also should pay close attention to station and crew announcements.

This work will impact customers on the NEC, NJCL and RVL planning to attend the following sports events and concerts.  Customers are strongly encouraged to allow additional travel time:

November 11 – NY Rangers at MSG 1 p.m.

November 11 – NY Knicks at MSG at 8 p.m.

November 11 NJ Devils at Prudential Center at 7 p.m.

November 12 Dead & Company concert at MSG at 7 p.m.

NOTE: Please allow additional travel time when using NEC or NJCL trains to/from the Newark Liberty International Airport.

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Crash Involving a New Jersey Transit Train in Glen Rock Sends One to Valley Hospital

glen rock NJT crash

photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook Page

November 6,2017

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Glen Rock NJ, An SUV driver was transported by Glen Rock EMS to The Valley Hospital after sustaining non life threatening injuries in a crash involving a NJ Transit train on Rock Road in Glen Rock early Sunday evening, 11/05. The driver of an SUV hit a commuter train .

Glen Rock Police, Fire and NJ Transit Police responded to the incident. The vehicle was removed by a flat bed tow truck. NJ Transit Police is handling the investigation. The incident occurred at NJ Transit’s Bergen Line grade crossing.

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AMTRAK SIGNAL WORK TO IMPACT NJ TRANSIT CUSTOMERS NOV 10-12

Ridgewood_Train_station_train-_is_coming_theridgewoodblog

Amtrak’s work, between Newark Penn Station and Secaucus, continues their effort to maintain its Northeast Corridor

October 30,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, NJ TRANSIT is advising customers of upcoming Amtrak signal work which will impact rail travel Friday night November 10th through Saturday and Sunday November 11th-12th.  Amtrak’s work, between Newark Penn Station and Secaucus, continues their effort to maintain its Northeast Corridor in a state of good repair.

NJ TRANSIT is relying on assurances by Amtrak the work will be complete prior to the start of the Monday morning rush hour on November 13th.

Beginning at 9 p.m. on Friday, November 10th and continuing through the end of service on Sunday, November 12th, customers traveling on the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Line may experience delays of up to 60 minutes in both directions.  The Amtrak work will require signals near Newark Penn Station to be taken out of service, requiring trains to operate at restricted speeds.

To accommodate this signal work and manage train traffic through the area, NJ TRANSIT will not operate the Northeast Corridor 7600 series trains between Rahway and Penn Station New York.  Customers will be accommodated by the following train which is scheduled 5-10 minutes behind the 7600 series.  Those trains will add a station stop at North Elizabeth.

During that same time, Amtrak will maximize this work period to also perform track work where the Raritan Valley Line connects with the Northeast Corridor.  Customers on the Raritan Valley Line will have substitute busing in place to/from Newark Penn Station as follows:

Friday night 11/10 9 p.m. through the end of the service day busing will be in place in both directions between Cranford and Newark Penn Station.
Saturday 11/11 and Sunday 11/12 busing will be in place all day in both directions between Union and Newark Penn Station.

Customers on these three rail lines (NEC, NJCL, RVL) are advised to allow for extra time to and from their destinations.  Customers also should pay close attention to station and crew announcements.

This work will impact customers on the NEC, NJCL and RVL planning to attend the following sports events and concerts.  Customers are strongly encouraged to allow plenty of extra travel time:

11/11 NY Rangers at MSG 1 p.m.
11/11 NY Knicks at MSG at 8 p.m.
11/11 NJ Devils at Prudential Center at 7 p.m.
11/12 Dead & Company concert at MSG at 7 p.m.

Important Note: M&E and Midtown Direct service will NOT be impacted by this Amtrak signal work.

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UPDATE: NJ Transit Ridgewood Station Center Platform Stairs Closed for Repairs

Ridgewood Train Station

UPDATE: Ridgewood Station: Center Platform Stairs Serving Pedestrian Tunnel Closed Temporarily for Repair Work – Beginning Tuesday, October 31, 2017

October 29,2017

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Beginning on or about Tuesday, October 31 and continuing through Friday, November 10, the stairway leading to/from the center platform and the pedestrian tunnel at Ridgewood Station between East Ridgewood Avenue and Wilsey Square will be closed temporarily for repair work.
During this time, customers may use the stairs or elevators serving the Franklin Avenue underpass for access to and from Garber Square, Wilsey Square, North Broad Street and the center platform serving tracks 3 and 1. For your safety, please follow directional signs and do not travel through barricaded areas.

We apologize for any inconvenience.  For further information, please call NJ TRANSIT Customer Service at (973) 275-5555 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily.