Tag: Ridgewood Bus Station

Posted on

CHANGES TO NJ TRANSIT BUS SERVICE IN HACKENSACK TAKE EFFECT ON APRIL 7

ridgewood bus station

April 2,2018

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ,  of the City of Hackensack, NJ TRANSIT bus service in that city will have slight adjustments to bus routes and/or stops which take place effective April 7.

All NJ TRANSIT bus service will be moved off of Main Street between Court and Passaic streets and will no longer operate through that area. These changes are the result of the City of Hackensack’s implementation of the next phase of their Main Street streetscape and redevelopment project.

Certain NJ TRANSIT bus routes will see some adjustments to their routes in Hackensack as the city makes improvements to enhance pedestrian safety and improve traffic flow. Customers who normally board their bus along Main Street will now board their bus along State or River streets.

The bus routes that will have slight adjustments are: 83 (to Jersey City), 165 (to Westwood), 168 (to New York and to Paramus), 751/755 (to Paramus), 752/770 (to Ridgewood/Oakland/Paterson), 753 (to New Milford/Cresskill and to Paramus), 762 (to Paramus), 772 (to Meadowlands and to Paramus) and 780 to Passaic and to Englewood). The 76 and 712 bus routes will have slight changes to a few bus stops.

Northbound bus service currently operating along Main Street will be relocated to State Street and River Street.

The trip destination signs seen on the front of the bus will not be affected.

Fares and the frequency of service will not change.

Customers are encouraged to sign up for My Transit Alerts, which provide customized notifications via email or text messages based on a customer’s preferences. My Transit alerts can be accessed by creating a free account on njtransit.com. Real-time bus arrival information is available through MyBus, using the five-digit code at the bus stop.

A “Hackensack’s Main Street’’ brochure, which highlights individual route and bus stop locations, is available in printed form and for viewing at njtransit.com.

Posted on

Reader says if you move Ridgewood Bus Station ,the “Green” bike lane needs to be removed

Bike Lane Traffic Easing Ridgewood

RE:” The bus station may be moved to the train station to create a single transit hub.  This would free up many parking spots in the core of the village by Van Neste.  It would also get buses off of Ridgewood Avenue and onto Franklin Avenue.  Of course with high density housing slated for the Ken Smith property, there is going to be a lot more traffic on Franklin anyway.  And the bus station on the other side of the tracks would take away some spots there.  But overall there would be a net gain of 38 (?) spots.”


This seem like a bad idea.

If this is done, that idiotic “Green” bike lane needs to be removed.
Traffic is a nightmare already.
I can’t imagine how bad it will be when you add bus traffic AND vehicle traffic for people dropping offs/picking up bus passengers.

Posted on

NJ TRANSIT BACK ON TRACK…ALMOST

waiting _for-the _bus_theridgewoodblog

TIPS FOR COMMUTERS

April 7,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ,  At 6:55 a.m., Amtrak advised NJ TRANSIT that all but one track is back in service at Penn Station New York (PSNY). NJ TRANSIT’s MidTOWN Direct Service has been operating to PSNY this morning, and the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Line train service is operating on their regular weekday schedules.

Trains are running with 15-20 delays !

As a precaution, NJ TRANSIT is advising customers that they may experience some delays and should give themselves some extra time to get to their destinations.  We also urge customers to check njtransit.com before traveling.

At approximately 9 a.m. Monday morning, NJ TRANSIT’s Northeast Corridor line train #3926 experienced a slow-speed derailment while pulling in to Track 9 at New York’s Penn Station.  Three cars in the middle of the ten car train derailed.  These were cars 5, 6, and 7.  Amtrak, which owns and maintains the tracks near Penn Station New York, has determined that a track problem was the cause of the derailment.

As long term commuters many on the staff of the Ridgewood blog would like to offer the following advise : Always have a backup plan  or a plan B . Long term commuters often have a plan C as well .

If you take the Train everyday be familiar with the NJT bus schedule (163,164 ) as well as the Short line bus schedule and the NJT 165 express buses that leave the park and ride at Garden State Parkway off Ridgewood ave. Also be familiar with the 752 buses ,they link Ridgewood to Hackensack bus station. And don’t forget the 175 goes to the GWB bus station linking to the A express subway line.
Midtown direct passengers should be familiar with the Hoboken PATH trains  as well as trains from Newark Penn to Ridgewood .Main line Bergen Line passengers should also be familiar with Pascack Valley line .
Complaining about commuting does not get you home to your family but good planning does.
Posted on

NJ TRANSIT ADDS EXTRA BUS SERVICE TO NEW YORK FOR ST PATRICKS DAY PARADE

St
March 12,2017

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 Friday, March 17, to accommodate customers traveling to the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City.  Trains will operate on a regular weekday schedule.  Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, Newark Light Rail and River Line will also operate regular weekday schedules.

Please note: liquid containers of any kind, open or closed, will not be permitted on any train to and from New York/Hoboken on March 17.  Beverages of any kind are prohibited at all times on board buses.

NJ TRANSIT will have Ambassadors will be on hand at Secaucus Junction, Aberdeen/Matawan, Middletown, N.J., and Penn Station New York to assist customers.

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 8:46 a.m. until 10:42 a.m. operating via the Boulevard in Hasbrouck Heights, Wood-Ridge, Carlstadt, and East Rutherford. Additional Turnpike Express (T) trips from Paramus (Paramus Rd. and Ridgewood Ave.) to NY/PABT at 8:57 a.m. and 9:17 a.m.From New York – PABT:

No. 163 (New York – Ridgewood) additional local service from PABT to Hackensack (Summit Ave. and Essex St.) operating via East Rutherford, Carlstadt, Wood Ridge, and Hasbrouck Heights at 4:25 p.m. and 4:45 p.m.  Additional Turnpike Express (T) service from PABT to Ridgewood Terminal operating via Hackensack, Maywood, Rochelle Park, Paramus and Ridgewood at 3:20 p.m. and 4:58 p.m.

No. 321 (Vince Lombardi Park & Ride – New York) frequent express service from the PABT to Vince Lombardi Park & Ride every 30 minutes beginning at 12:45 p.m. through the late afternoon, then every 10-15 minutes during the afternoon peak hours.

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 during the morning period and early to mid-afternoon hours before and after the parade may affect bus travel times to New York City.  Customers should plan accordingly.
Plan Ahead:  Extra bus service will operate a few minutes ahead of regularly scheduled trips on the routes listed above.  Customers should arrive at their bus boarding location 10 minutes earlier than the departure time.
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 liquids of any kind, 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.

For schedules and fares, visit njtransit.com or call 973-275-5555.

Posted on

PORT AUTHORITY PLANNING NEW 42ND BUS TERMINAL

saturday night fever

PORT AUTHORITY BOARD AUTHORIZES PLANNING FOR NEW BUS TERMINAL, INTERIM SOLUTIONS FOR EXISTING TERMINAL
February 17,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, The Port Authority Board of Commissioners today authorized the agency to begin the first phase of a comprehensive planning process for the replacement of the midtown bus terminal – including the hiring of environmental and technical consultants to ensure compliance with federal, state and local review processes.

The planning process will include evaluation of potential intermediate bus staging and storage facilities and other initiatives to sustain and meet capacity requirements for efficient operations of the interstate bus network, including the existing PABT facility. These initiatives will help ensure the existing Port Authority Bus Terminal is able to continue to meet current bus and passenger demand.

“We continue to acknowledge that, while the new Port Authority Bus Terminal is a critical first step in improving trans-Hudson commuting, it is only one piece of a menu of options that must be in place to meet the needs created by future demand increases,” said Port Authority Chairman John Degnan. “The Port Authority will work with our stakeholders to take their important views into account, as we did at the 2015 Trans-Hudson Summit and in the 2016 Trans-Hudson Commuting Capacity Study.”

“Meeting the needs of the growing number of the region’s bus commuters is an essential component of the Port Authority’s transportation mission, and this project will be done while fully respecting and minimizing the impacts on Manhattan’s West Side after and considering the input of residents there in a formal environmental process,’’ said Port Authority Executive Director Pat Foye.

The board authorized the agency to hire environmental and technical consultants to provide project management and planning services for the bus terminal replacement, and to evaluate interim solutions for the existing terminal. These consultants would ensure that all planning stages comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and/or all applicable review processes, and that there is coordination with stakeholders and adherence to eligibility requirements for federal funding.

Planning for a new bus terminal will include identifying an optimal location based on ongoing engagement with the City of New York and other New York and New Jersey stakeholders. Additionally, it will include reviewing the agency’s previous midtown bus master planning effort, the analysis and suggestions of the Port Authority Bus Terminal International Design + Deliverability Competition and the findings of the Trans-Hudson Commuting Capacity Study commissioned by the board.

The Port Authority Bus Terminal, located on Manhattan’s West Side, opened in 1950 and last underwent a major expansion in 1979. Each weekday it accommodates approximately 232,000 passenger trips and 7,800 bus movements. Demand is expected to increase by 51 percent, with up to 337,000 weekday passenger trips, by 2040.

Even at today’s levels of bus demand, the bus terminal routinely operates beyond capacity during peak travel hours. Through an ongoing Quality of Commute initiative, the Port Authority has partnered with bus operators on operational changes that have reduced crowding within the terminal and relieved congestion caused by buses on nearby streets.

However, a lack of strategically located bus parking, and facilities for the staging of empty buses ready to enter the terminal to pick up afternoon commuters, remains a persistent problem. The Trans-Hudson Commuting Capacity Study suggested that the addition of parking and staging facilities is needed to help the bus terminal accommodate growing demand.

Posted on

NJ TRANSIT CROSS HONORING AS OFF 4AM TODAY!

Snow Blizzard of 2016 Ridgewood CBD

file photo by Boyd Loving

Cross Honoring in Effect starting at 4:00 a.m. Thursday

February 8, 2017

Ridgewood, NJ — NJ TRANSIT is prepared to manage the incoming winter storm forecasted to hit New Jersey over the next several hours.  NJ TRANSIT’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is open and is monitoring the track of the winter weather and its potential effects on the Tri-State area. Personnel and assets have also been pre-positioned in order to address any issues that may arise during the morning rush hour as quickly as possible.

NJ TRANSIT is expected to operate regular service on its bus, rail, light rail and Access Link services.  However, as the storm unfolds, and as conditions warrant, NJ TRANSIT will immediately advise customers of any service disruptions, delays or changes.  Customers are strongly advised 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 website and social media feeds on Twitter and Facebook, as well as tune in to broadcast traffic reports for the latest information.

Cross honoring will be in effect beginning at 4 a.m. tomorrow, Thursday, February 9 on bus, rail and light rail services.

Current service impacts include:
• Regular weekday service for rail, bus, light rail and Access Link will operate as long as conditions allow.
• All 196 and 197 lines bus service will originate and terminate at West Milford Park and Ride. Rail will Cross Honor on the Port Jervis Line at the Harriman, Tuxedo, and Sloatsburg Stations. Shortline bus will also be Cross Honoring.
• Cross honoring will be in effect across rail, bus and light rail systems.
• Due to the impending storm, Access Link is cancelling all trips between 3am -5 am. Also, for the entire service day ALL transfer trips are cancelled as well.
Snow fighting supplies and equipment across the state are stocked and ready to be deployed as conditions warrant.

NJ TRANSIT’s preparations for the winter season began long before the first snowflakes began to fall.  Over the course of the fall and the months leading up to winter, crews have been busy inspecting and winterizing infrastructure, equipment and stations to be in the best possible position to handle winter’s potential wrath.

In early December, Executive Director Steven Santoro outlined the following steps NJ TRANSIT has taken in advance of the winter weather season:

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.
• Vendor contracts have been finalized to perform plowing of larger park/ride facilities.

Light Rail Operations

• Snowplows are ready to clear station platforms and park/ride lots.
• All switch heaters have been tested.

Access Link

• Due to the impending storm, Access Link is cancelling all trips between 3AM-5AM ONLY. Also, for the entire service day ALL transfer trips are cancelled as well. We will continue to closely monitor the upcoming storm and make any service changes as needed. We’re asking customers to allow extra travel time and cancel any rides you may not need. You can now cancel your rides right here on the web. Please call the 800# or check the NJ TRANSIT web site for updates.

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.

Posted on

How to fix the Port Authority

Shaft_017Pyxurz

By Post Editorial Board

January 29, 2017

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is an $8 billion behemoth plagued by “politicized decision-making, money-losing facilities and declining financial viability,” notes a new Manhattan Institute report that outlines how to fix it.

And thereby end the massive cost overruns, bloated payrolls, regular scandals and general waste that define the modern PA.

Authored by the Reason Foundation’s Robert Poole, a national transportation expert, the 24-page report pushes a total reinvention of the PA’s unsustainable business model, especially the way it finances its system.

Using airports, bridges and tunnels as cash cows to cover ongoing losses at other operations, like the PATH, Poole rightly notes, has meant “mediocre airports, congested and inadequate bridges and tunnels, money-losing seaports, a pathetic bus terminal, and the worst heavy-rail transit system in the nation.” And no cash available to reinvest in fixing or replacing what’s wrong.

Instead, the PA should move to finance projects via public-private partnerships, with public pension funds as key investors.

The agency would no longer own or operate the tunnels, airports, etc., but rather regulate an array of concession companies held accountable via bond covenants and the conditions of their long-term contracts.

Up-front payments for the concessions, along with investments, would provide the revenue for replacement infrastructure.

https://nypost.com/2017/01/29/how-to-fix-the-port-authority/

Posted on

Report proposes radical Port Authority shakeup

John Shaft

Paul Berger , Staff writer, @pdbergerPublished 6:16 p.m. ET Jan. 25, 2017 | Updated 14 hours ago

New Jersey motorists are being cheated out of hundreds of millions of dollars of toll revenue that could be reinvested in better bridges and tunnels, according to a new report by a conservative think tank that proposes a radical fix for the dysfunctional public agency charged with keeping the region moving.

The report from the Manhattan Institute says the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey should reinvest the enormous profits from its Hudson River crossings and its airports to improve those facilities, instead of subsidizing money-losing operations such as the PATH rail system and the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Struggling facilities should be forced to become self-financing through private-sector partnerships, the report adds.

 

https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/transportation/2017/01/25/report-proposes-radical-port-authority-shakeup/97043718/?utm_campaign=Observer_NJ_Politics&utm_content=New%20Campaign&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_term=New%20Jersey%20Politics

Posted on

Ridgewood Pushes through Massive Last Minute Parking Permit Increase

parking_theridgewoodblog

December 24,2016

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, 2017 Annual Parking Permits – Annual Resident, Non-resident and CBD employee parking permits are available for purchase at Village Hall. Driver’s License and car registration are required to apply for all parking permits. The Annual Parking Permits for residents cost $750 or $1,000 annually, depending on which lots are chosen for parking.

Parking Permits 

Ho Ho Kus $350
Glen Rock $150  and $80 for the second tag

Fair lawn  $1 a day residents $4 a day non-residents
Allendale $50 for residents
Ramsey $15
Other towns including Allendale often pitch new residents; “Compared to Ridgewood it is great! One of the advantages of Allendale. You can get a parking space pretty easily anytime of day (unlike Ridgewood) The resident permit was $50”
Posted on

NJ Transit Special Schedules From Christmas Eve thru New Years Day

lasttraintoclarksville_theridgewoodblog

NJ TRANSIT OFFERS EXTRA SERVICE AND SAVINGS FOR HOLIDAY WEEK

December 22,2016
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 23 until 6 a.m. Tuesday, January 3, 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.

A new, key feature to aid customers this holiday season is “The Commuter Tool Kit – The Tools You Need for a Better Travel Experience,’’ 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 and 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.

On Friday, December 23, trains 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.  Newark Light Rail, Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and RiverLINE 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.

On Saturday, December 24, trains will operate on a weekend schedule. Most bus routes will operate on a Saturday schedule. Newark Light Rail and RiverLINE 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.

On Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, trains will operate on a weekend schedule on all rail lines. Newark Light Rail and RiverLINE will operate on a Sunday schedule.  Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule.  Bus will operate on a Sunday schedule and schedules vary by route — Customers are advised to consult their timetable for the holiday schedule or visit njtransit.com for details.

On Monday, December 26 (observed), trains will operate on a weekend schedule on all lines, with additional morning and evening peak trains on most lines. Customers should visit njtransit.com for details. Newark Light Rail and RiverLINE will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule.  Buses will operate on a Saturday schedule. Select bus routes will operate offer 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 27, Wednesday, December 28, Thursday, December 29 and Friday, December 30, the 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 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 New Year’s Eve, Saturday, December 31, trains will operate on a weekend schedule. In the evening, there will be extra train service to New York.  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.

Buses will operate on a Saturday schedule with extra early evening service inbound and extra outbound from PABT after midnight on selected routes. Customers are advised to consult timetable or visit njtransit.com/Bus Holiday Service Guide for more details.

Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Newark Light Rail and RiverLINE will operate on a Saturday schedule.  RiverLINE and Hudson Bergen Light Rail will both operate some additional trips on a ‘load and go’ capacity after the fireworks displays during the early hours of January 1.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  No open containers of alcohol will be permitted on board trains, light rail vehicles, aboard buses or in any NJ TRANSIT facility on New Year’s Eve and after midnight on New Year’s Day.  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. Some trains that normally depart New York/Hoboken/Newark between midnight and 1 a.m. are cancelled and will be replaced with later trains. 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/Bus Holiday Service Guide for specific schedule details and departure gate assignments.

On New Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1, after 5 a.m., trains will operate on a weekend schedule.  In addition, Meadowlands service will operate for the Jets vs. Bills game. Customers should visit njtransit.com for more details. RiverLINE 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. Buses will operate on a Sunday schedule. Customers are advised to visit njtransit.com for details.

On Monday, January 2 (observed), trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule on all lines with additional morning and evening peak trains on most lines. Customers should visit njtransit.com for details. Most bus routes will operate on a Saturday schedule. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule. RiverLINE will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Consult njtransit.com for additional details.

Posted on

NJ TRANSIT PREPARED FOR WINTER WEATHER SEASON

ridgewood train station

Equipment, Supplies and Personnel are Ready for Mother Nature

December 10,2016

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, “We can’t predict what kind of winter season we will have, but I can say with confidence that NJ TRANSIT will be as ready as we can be” said Executive Director Steven H. Santoro.  “The safety of our customers and employees is always the top priority as we work to keep our transportation system moving during the winter weather season.”NEWARK, NJ — NJ TRANSIT is prepared to do battle with Old Man Winter this season.  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.

Executive Director Santoro outlined the following steps NJ TRANSIT has taken in advance of possible inclement weather:
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.
• Vendor contracts have been finalized to perform plowing of larger park/ride facilities.

Light Rail Operations

• Snowplows are ready to clear station platforms and park/ride lots.
• All switch heaters have been tested.
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.

Posted on

NJ Transit will offer Extra Bus and Rail Service for Black Friday Shoppers and Commuters

Ridgewood -bus-station-theridgewoodblog

Kids ride free on NJ TRANSIT all holiday weekend

November 22, 2016

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Whether it’s over the river or through the woods, NJ TRANSIT is offering additional trains and buses this Thanksgiving holiday weekend 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 23, 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 Friday, November 25, 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.

On Friday, November 25, 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 10 a.m. and noon on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast and Morris & Essex lines.  Customers are encouraged to travel early, if possible, when ridership is light.  Select morning peak period trains on the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Line will not operate on Friday, due to expected light ridership—customers should visit njtransit.com and use the “Station-to-Station Trip Planner” to find trains on Friday.  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 25 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, IKEA Paramus, 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 23 until 6 a.m. Monday, November 28.

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 25:  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.

Posted on

New Jersey Transit Adds Extra Buses and Trains for Thanksgiving Travelers

Ridgewood Train Station

file photo by ArtChick Photography

SERVICE ADVISORY:EXTRA RAIL AND BUS SERVICE SET FOR THANKSGIVING TRAVELERS

Kids ride free on NJ TRANSIT all holiday weekend

November 22, 2016

the staffof the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Whether it’s over the river or through the woods, NJ TRANSIT is offering additional trains and buses this Thanksgiving holiday weekend 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 23, 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 24, 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 25, 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.

Early getaway service from New York, Newark and Hoboken

On Wednesday, November 23, 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 24, 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 a.m. Thanksgiving morning, November 24.  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 25, 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 10 a.m. and noon on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast and Morris & Essex lines.  Customers are encouraged to travel early, if possible, when ridership is light.  Select morning peak period trains on the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Line will not operate on Friday, due to expected light ridership—customers should visit njtransit.com and use the “Station-to-Station Trip Planner” to find trains on Friday.  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 25 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, IKEA Paramus, 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 23 until 6 a.m. Monday, November 28.

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 25:  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.

Posted on

NJ TRANSIT OFFERS ‘EARLY GETAWAY’ SERVICE FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND

Ridgewood Train Station

photo by ArtChick

Kids ride free all weekend with Family SuperSaver Fare

August 31, 2016
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, there will offer “early getaway” rail and bus service on Friday, September 2, for the benefit of customers leaving work early for the Labor Day holiday weekend.

To help speed the getaway, customers are reminded that they can enjoy the convenience of purchasing tickets through the MyTix feature on the NJ TRANSIT mobile app.On Friday, September 2, 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.  Extra buses will operate from the Port Authority Bus Terminal and the Hudson River Waterfront 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.

REMINDER: Effective September 3, 2016 12 bus routes servicing the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York will have departure gate assignments changed.  Selected routes will be changed as of Saturday, September 3rd with other routes being changed mainly during the weekday PM peak and evening hours as of Tuesday, September 6th.  Check njtransit.com for details.

On Labor Day, Monday, September 5, trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule on all lines.  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.  Bus schedules vary by route—customers are advised to check their timetables or visit njtransit.com for schedule information.

Customers are reminded to check njtransit.com for their individual bus timetables for the weekend as departure times will vary by route.

For complete schedules and fares, visit njtransit.com or call 973-275-5555.

9316268772be0ab04b806c05f92a617e303 8

Posted on

Next Month NJT will increase the number of gates during weekday PM peak hours to Ridgewood

Ridgewood-bus_terminal_theridgewoodblog

Departure Gate Changes to Increase Efficiency

August 23, 2016
the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ,  Following the success of last year’s reorganization and consolidation of services within the Port Authority Bus Terminal, NJ TRANSIT is again partnering with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for Phase Two of improvements to the quality of commute.

Beginning September 3rd, 2016, NJ TRANSIT will have access to an increased number of gates during weekday PM peak hours. To take advantage of the opportunity to further enhance service reliability, reduce congestion on platforms, and improve the overall customer experience, 12 bus routes will have new departure gate assignments, primarily during the afternoon peak.  These adjustments will further improve on-time performance and reduce customer queues and wait times within the terminal, especially for weekday PM peak hour departures.

“Since beginning this process last fall of rethinking how we operate at the Port Authority Bus Terminal, we’ve heard a tremendous amount of positive feedback,” said interim NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Dennis Martin.  “The bottom line for our customers is that they want a safe, convenient and efficient experience through the terminal.  By thinking outside the box and challenging the status quo, I think we are continuing to set the bar higher of what can be achieved with the available resources.”

Like last fall, NJ TRANSIT will have customer service ambassadors at the Port Authority Bus Terminal the weeks of August 29th and September 6thinforming customers of the new departure locations.  Ambassadors will be handing out informational flyers detailing the gate changes.  Customers on the 12 affected bus routes are urged to familiarize themselves with the new departure location prior to September 3rd.  For more information customers can also visit njtransit.com or call NJ TRANSIT Customer Service at (973) 275-5555 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily.

DEPARTURE GATE ASSIGNMENTS

Effective September 3, 2016

Z