March 19, 2015 Last updated: Thursday, March 19, 2015, 12:31 AM
By Lianna Albrizio
STAFF WRITER |
Pascack Valley Community Life
A shuttle bus that offered a free reverse commute to passengers to and from the Ridgewood Train Station to their jobs at corporate buildings in Woodcliff Lake, Park Ridge and Montvale will cease operation.
Montvale Councilwoman Leah LaMonica, who was instrumental in finding funding for the three-year-running bus, said at the meeting that the county was “unwilling” to get another grant to keep the wheels on the service in motion. Alicia D’Alessandro, director of communications to the office of Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III, confirmed the shuttle’s eventual discontinuation.
“While a final decision hasn’t been made, it is likely that the operation of the shuttle will cease later this spring,” she said in a phone interview after the meeting.
The handicapped-accessible, 16-seat shuttle was funded via a $150,000 three-year environmental grant from NJ Transit in March 2012. The bus provided a reverse commute for passengers to and from the Ridgewood Train Station in Garber Square as early as 7:15 a.m. to as late as 6:30 p.m. LaMonica had worked with former state Assemblywoman Charlotte Vandervalk to provide transportation for commuters to the tri-boro area, which the councilwoman previously said had been underserviced for years.
NJ Transit chief: Will try to hold hikes to single digits
MARCH 11, 2015, 11:03 AM LAST UPDATED: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015, 4:38 PM
BY DAVID PORTER
ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEWARK — Rail and bus commuters facing potential fare hikes likely won’t see increases as high as they did in 2010 when fares rose an average of more than 20 percent, the head of the North Jersey Transportation Authority said Wednesday.
Executive Director Ronnie Hakim told board members that a looming $80 million budget gap is forcing her to look at all options, including fare increases. She said that if increases become necessary, her goal is to make them less burdensome for commuters.
The last fare hikes averaged 22 percent across the system and were accompanied by service cuts and the elimination of off-peak discounts.
What happened in 2010 “was very harsh for our customers and we’re doing everything to significantly avoid any recommendation remotely like that,” she said. “So I would like to stay in the single digits.”
In an accident of timing, Hakim’s comments came on a day when four of NJ Transit’s rail lines were suspended temporarily, with two of the suspensions occurring during the morning commute — one due to police and fire activity and another due to a trespasser fatality on the tracks.
No details yet on possible hike, divulged by Christie administration in budget document
TRENTON – Commuters beware: New Jersey Transit is considering a fare hike and service cuts.
Documents supporting Gov. Chris Christie’s budget plan say NJ Transit “is currently evaluating a range of savings and revenue-generating options that may include the first fare adjustment since May of 2010.”
There’s no detail yet available on the size or timing of a potential fare increase. In 2010, rail and commuter bus fares increased by 25 percent, while light-rail and local bus fares went up 10 percent.
“We are developing options for the governor’s consideration to help us close a budget gap and will be putting everything on the table, including fare and service adjustments,” said NJ Transit spokesman William Smith. “Right now we are working with the state budget numbers as we develop and finalize our own operating plan for the fiscal year.”
Budget documents say the transit agency needs additional funds to meet its operating needs and specifically cite increasing premiums for employee health plans as one of those costs.
Smith said the size of the budget gap has not yet been identified.
Rail Crossing Accidents Decline Nationwide, but Less So in New York Region
By EMMA G. FITZSIMMONS and RUSS BUETTNERFEB. 4, 2015
A work crew used a crane on Wednesday to load the remains of the sport utility vehicle involved in Tuesday evening’s crash with a Metro-North Railroad train in Valhalla, N.Y. Six people were killed. CreditKarsten Moran for The New York Times
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Railroad crossings, with their flashing lights and descending gates, are a fixture of suburban living. The hundreds of crossings along commuter rail lines in New York and New Jersey can be a nuisance for drivers whose journeys are being interrupted, but they are also something to be feared, crossroads that can easily turn dangerous.
Accidents at railroad crossings happen with surprising regularity in the region. Since 2003, there have been 125 grade-crossing accidents on New Jersey Transit lines, 105 on the Long Island Rail Road and 30 onMetro-North Railroad, according to the latest available Federal Railroad Administration data. More than half of those 260 accidents resulted in injuries or deaths. In all, 73 people were killed and 148 injured.
Reader says new bike lane by the Ridgewood train station appears very ill-conceived, dangerous and might not be legal in New Jersey
The new bike lane by the Ridgewood train station strikes me as very ill-conceived, and frankly, dangerous. It is the first bike lane I have ever seen that crosses over from the right shoulder into a space between two car lanes. The fact that it is on a sharp decline, just after a hard right turn, and just before a busy intersection, makes it even worse.
I did some quick research and it looks as though such a bike lane might not be legal in New Jersey. A rule adopted by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs in 1997 states: “Bicycle lanes, where provided, shall be placed in the outside lane of a roadway, adjacent to the curb or shoulder.” See 29 N.J.R. 159(a). There is language in the rule adoption about an expiration date in 2002. I am not sure if the rule is still in effect or not, and admittedly, New Jersey Administrative law is not my area of expertise, but perhaps someone else can comment on this.
If the rule has expired, it should be readopted at the state level. Or another option would be for Ridgewood to write this requirement into its own municipal code. The Borough of Medford Lakes, New Jersey has done just that (see the Medford Lakes Municipal Code, §145-124(b)).
At any rate, Ridgewood should rethink the new bicycle lane for the safety of its bicyclists, as well as the peace of mind of its drivers.
Trenton, N.J. – The State of New Jersey has revoked the statewide travel ban that was put into effect at 11:00 p.m. last evening. The travel ban is revoked in all 21 counties.
New Jerseyans should continue to stay off the roads whenever possible throughout the day as transportation and public safety officials continue their work to clear the roadways from the snowfall. New Jerseyans should abide by all traffic laws and be extremely cautious if they must travel today.
NJT Rail service will resume later this afternoon after mandatory federal inspections are complete. Line by line announcements will be made.
NJT Bus service in South Jersey is now operating with limited service. Service in North Jersey will resume by 11 AM if not sooner.
PATH service will be restored at 9:30 a.m. on a weekend schedule
All Port Authority bridges and tunnels are reopened.
NJ Transit to shut down system Monday night at 10pm
UPDATE: The last service for NJ TRANSIT’s rail, bus and light rail will depart from its point of origin at 8 p.m. tonight and scheduled to arrive at their final destinations by/at 10 p.m. due to worsening weather conditions.
Effective 10 p.m. Monday, January 26, NJ TRANSIT service will shut down service due to Winter Storm Juno. At this time, commuter service on NJ TRANSIT for Bus, Light Rail and Rail departing all major stations and terminals will end by 8 p.m. reaching their final destination by/at 10 p.m.
Rail: Service will remain shut down until Thursday morning January 29, depending on track/equipment and infrastructure conditions. The last train will make all local stops.
Bus and Light Rail: Service may resume Wednesday, January 28 depending on road and track conditions as well as snow-removal operations.
NJ TRANSIT ANNOUNCES FULL, SYSTEMWIDE CROSS-HONORING IN ADVANCE OF MAJOR WINTER STORM
Customers advised to check njtransit.com before traveling
NEWARK, NJ — As this season’s first major winter storm moves toward the region, NJ TRANSIT operations, customer service and police personnel are taking steps to minimize delays, and ensure service reliability and safety due to the approaching winter storm. All customers are strongly advised to check njtransit.com before traveling for up-to-the-minute service information before starting their trip.
NJ TRANSIT plans to operate a regular weekday schedule on Monday, January 26 through Wednesday, January 28, however due to the predicted severity of the storm, there is the potential for significant shutdowns of NJ TRANSIT’s rail, bus, light rail and Access Link service. Customers are advised to regularly check njtransit.com for the latest service information.
Additionally, Customers are strongly urged to exercise extreme caution traveling in and around all transit facilities and when boarding or alighting buses and trains due to the expected icy conditions.
Systemwide Cross-Honoring in Effect from Monday, January 26 through and including Wednesday, January 28: To give customers additional travel options during the expected winter weather conditions, NJ TRANSIT will offer full systemwide cross-honoring from Monday, January 26 through and including Wednesday, January 28, enabling customers to use their ticket or pass on an alternate travel mode—rail, light rail or bus—including private bus carriers.
For example, customers who normally take the bus from Rutherford to the Port Authority Bus Terminal may use their bus pass or ticket on the train from Rutherford to New York Penn Station. Similarly, customers who normally take the bus between Atlantic City and Lindenwold may use the Atlantic City Rail Line instead at no additional charge. Customers using their tickets or passes to travel to a destination other than the destination printed on their original ticket will be subject to the appropriate additional fare if applicable.
NJ TRANSIT will also continue to closely monitor the crowds at New York Penn Station, Hoboken Terminal and the Port Authority Bus Terminal and make adjustments to service as necessary.
The corporation is preparing to minimize disruptions and delays to the extent possible. Rail and light rail crews and equipment are on standby to quickly respond to downed trees, power outages or other issues that may arise. In addition, NJ TRANSIT will be positioning locomotives at strategic locations across the rail system to rapidly respond in the event of a disabled train.
Customers are advised of the following:
Systemwide: NJ TRANSIT plans to operate a regular weekday schedule on Monday, January 26 through Wednesday, January 28, however due to the predicted severity of this storm, there is the potential for significant shutdowns of NJ TRANSIT’s rail, bus, light rail and Access Link service. Again, customers are advised to regularly check njtransit.com for the latest service information.
Travel Advice:
For the latest travel information, visit njtransit.com or access our Twitter feed at @NJTRANSIT prior to starting your trip. In the event of delays or service adjustments, NJ TRANSIT will provide the most current service information via the My Transit alert system, which delivers travel advisories for your specific trip to your cell phone, PDA or pager. (If you are not yet a My Transit subscriber, we encourage you to sign up at www.njtransit.com/mytransit) Service information is also available by calling (973) 275-5555 or from broadcast traffic reports.
Listen closely to public address announcements at stations for late-breaking service information.
Build additional travel time into your trip to a station, terminal or bus stop.
Stairs, flooring and platforms can be slippery, so please use caution when walking along wet surfaces or any outdoor surface exposed to the weather. Use extra care when boarding or exiting buses and trains.
Report slippery or unsafe conditions to bus operators, train crews or
NJ TRANSIT staff.
If you park, ensure your car is stocked with a snow brush and ice scraper so you can clear your car upon returning to the lot.
NJ TRANSIT is prepared to handle the impending winter weather:
Snow plows and salt spreaders are ready for service and snow-removal contracts are in place with outside vendors.
NJ TRANSIT is well-stocked with 16,000 bags of snow-melting supplies, and hundreds of shovels and snow blowers.
NJ TRANSIT has performed maintenance and testing on its two rail-mounted jet snow blowers in the event they are needed to help clear train tracks of snow and ice, particularly in rail yards.
More than 750 rail switches, switch heaters and overhead wires have already been inspected as part of NJ TRANSIT’s preventative maintenance program.
Onboard heating systems, thermostats, weather stripping and electronic components have been inspected on NJ TRANSIT railcars, light rail cars and locomotives.
Bus maintenance personnel have inspected and performed necessary maintenance on a fleet of nearly 2,200 buses – from the heating and airbrake systems, to the engine fluids, tires, windshield wipers and doors.
Ridgewood NJ, Since the Ridgewood blog had come up more than once in the last few civility meetings Mayor Aronsohn and Jan Philips reached out to us for an invite so we updated our Last Will and Testaments and graciously accepted .The meetings of the Civility Round Table are held on Tuesday’s, once a month at 7:30 PM in the Ridgewood Village Hall Senior’s Lounge. Residents are encouraged to attend .
The meeting started promptly at 7:30 and was to my mind well attended given the time of the year . Jan Phelps hosted the meeting , with Mayor Aronsohn and Councilwomen Hauck . Everyone introduced themselves representing various groups and organizations in the Village , from the BOE , the Planing Board , the Ridgewood Library ,several local clergy , the HSA’s , RBSA and may other fine organizations that serve Ridgewood as well as a few residents . The purpose as stated by the Mayor is to create a more civil discourse in the Village .
Civility is about more than just politeness, although politeness is a necessary first step. It is about disagreeing without disrespect, seeking common ground as a starting point for dialogue about differences, listening past one’s preconceptions, and teaching others to do the same. Civility is the hard work of staying present even with those with whom we have deep-rooted and fierce disagreements. It is political in the sense that it is a necessary prerequisite for civic action. But it is political, too, in the sense that it is about negotiating interpersonal power such that everyone’s voice is heard, and nobody’s is ignored. https://www.instituteforcivility.org/who-we-are/what-is-civility/
The group seemed to agree that Ridgewood is a town where people like to excel , and that drive and those expectations create a very passionate , as you can see from blog comments and opinionated populace . People care about their community and thats a good thing , but many felt that sometimes we all go a bit to far .
We looked at the causes of incivility , the when and why .Sheila Brogan long time BOE member , felt that todays parents had a lot of additional pressure and worried that in todays world their kids would have a hard time doing as well as they have done . She went on to speak about the changing times and how one could expect to have several careers over a life time ,all this she though made being a parent a lot harder than it was in the past and a lot more pressure .
We managed to go till 8:08 be for someone mentioned the elephant in the room, “I want to talk about the blog”…….
I learned a lot , mostly that I am glad I can sit in my PJ’s drinking coffee writing a blog getting yelled at by anonymous commenters ,and don’t have a tuff job like the RBSA people who are pulled in many directions ,by so many demands all at once .
There were interestingly a surprising large amount of blog enthusiasts there some open and some secret admirers .
While I could see there were some sore spots , like turf fields , PSEG ,sports issues , Valley Hospital , the Village Hall renovation and alas Marty Brooks the daggers were lowered for the night .
While anonymity of blog posters took a hit as expected some pointed out that even on facebook were you know who everyone is the comments can be even nastier . A resident put it down to a type of “keyboard bravado.”
PJ’s Rules
1) Stick to issues don’t make it personal
2) Don’t take anything personal
M. Forni’s 25 Rules:The 25 Rules of Considerate Conduct
1. Pay attention
2. Acknowledge others
3. Think the best
4. Listen
5. Be inclusive
6. Speak kindly
7. Don’t speak ill
8. Accept and give praise
9. Respect even a subtle “no”
10. Respect others’ opinions
11. Mind your body
12. Be agreeable
13. Keep it down (and rediscover silence)
14. Respect other people’s time
15. Respect other people’s space
16. Apologize earnestly and thoughtfully
17. Assert yourself
18. Avoid personal questions
19. Care for your guests
20. Be a considerate guest
21. Think twice before asking for favors
22. Refrain from idle complaints
23. Give constructive criticism
24. Respect the environment and be gentle to animals
NEW JERSEY TRANSIT OFFERS SYSTEMWIDE CROSS HONORING IN ADVANCE OF WINTER STORM
Customers advised to check njtransit.com before traveling
January 11, 2015
NEWARK, NJ — NJ TRANSIT operations, customer service and police personnel are taking steps to minimize delays, and ensure service reliability and safety due to the approaching winter storm. All customers are strongly advised to check njtransit.com before traveling for up-to-the-minute service information before starting their trip.
Customers are strongly urged to exercise extreme caution traveling in and around all transit facilities and when boarding or exiting buses and trains due to the expected icy conditions.
Systemwide Cross-Honoring in Effect on January 12: To give customers additional travel options during the expected winter weather conditions, NJ TRANSIT will offer full systemwide cross-honoring on Monday, January 12, enabling customers to use their ticket or pass on an alternate travel mode—rail, light rail or bus—including private bus carriers.
For example, customers who normally take the bus from Rutherford to the Port Authority Bus Terminal may use their bus pass or ticket on the train from Rutherford to New York Penn Station. Similarly, customers who normally take the bus between Atlantic City and Lindenwold may use the Atlantic City Rail Line instead at no additional charge. Customers using their tickets or passes to travel to a destination other than the destination printed on their original ticket will be subject to the appropriate additional fare if applicable.
NJ TRANSIT will also continue to closely monitor the crowds at New York Penn Station, Hoboken Terminal and the Port Authority Bus Terminal and make adjustments to service as necessary.
The corporation is preparing to minimize disruptions and delays to the extent possible. Rail and light rail crews and equipment are on standby to quickly respond to downed trees, power outages or other issues that may arise. In addition, NJ TRANSIT will be positioning locomotives at strategic locations across the rail system to rapidly respond in the event of a disabled train.
Customers are advised of the following:
Systemwide: NJ TRANSIT plans to operate a regular weekday schedule on Monday, January 12. Depending on the impact of the storm, it may be necessary for NJ TRANSIT to modify service as conditions change.
Bus Service: While every effort will be made to continue operating bus service throughout the state, customers may experience delays or detours on their routes in the event of extreme winter weather conditions. Customers are advised to plan accordingly and anticipate disruptions to bus service.
Travel Advice:
For the latest travel information, visit njtransit.com or access our Twitter feed at @NJTRANSIT prior to starting your trip. In the event of delays or service adjustments, NJ TRANSIT will provide the most current service information via the My Transit alert system, which delivers travel advisories for your specific trip to your cell phone, PDA or pager. (If you are not yet a My Transit subscriber, we encourage you to sign up at www.njtransit.com/mytransit) Service information is also available by calling (973) 275-5555 or from broadcast traffic reports.
Listen closely to public address announcements at stations for late-breaking service information.
Build additional travel time into your trip to a station, terminal or bus stop.
Stairs, flooring and platforms can be slippery, so please use caution when walking along wet surfaces or any outdoor surface exposed to the weather. Use extra care when boarding or exiting buses and trains.
Report slippery or unsafe conditions to bus operators, train crews or
NJ TRANSIT staff.
If you park, ensure your car is stocked with a snow brush and ice scraper so you can clear your car upon returning to the lot.
NJ TRANSIT is prepared to handle the impending winter weather:
Snow plows and salt spreaders are ready for service and snow-removal contracts are in place with outside vendors.
NJ TRANSIT is well-stocked with 16,000 bags of snow-melting supplies, and hundreds of shovels and snow blowers.
NJ TRANSIT has performed maintenance and testing on its two rail-mounted jet snow blowers in the event they are needed to help clear train tracks of snow and ice, particularly in rail yards.
More than 750 rail switches, switch heaters and overhead wires have already been inspected as part of NJ TRANSIT’s preventative maintenance program.
Onboard heating systems, thermostats, weather stripping and electronic components have been inspected on NJ TRANSIT railcars, light rail cars and locomotives.
Bus maintenance personnel have inspected and performed necessary maintenance on a fleet of nearly 2,200 buses – from the heating and airbrake systems, to the engine fluids, tires, windshield wipers and doors.
Unlike the ARC tunnel the Gov Christie cancelled the Gateway Project will go direct to Penn Station and will not be entirely funded by NJ tax payers
N.J. lawmakers present a united front for new rail tunnel
JANUARY 4, 2015, 10:32 PM LAST UPDATED: SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2015, 10:39 PM
BY HERB JACKSON
RECORD COLUMNIST |
THE RECORD
With both houses of Congress about to be controlled by Republicans, whose hard-liners denounce expensive federal projects as wasteful pork and have banned lawmakers from earmarking funds for pet projects, a bipartisan delegation from New Jersey is gearing up to win support for a new rail tunnel under the Hudson River.
Both Sen. Bob Menendez, a Democrat, and Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen, a Republican, said they are hopeful they can get a commitment at least to start Amtrak’s Gateway project when Congress takes up a multiyear transportation financing bill next spring.
Frelinghuysen, of Harding, said he thought the chances of some success are “pretty good.” Menendez, of Paramus, said he was “cautiously optimistic.”
“I’m not saying it’ll be the whole kit and caboodle … but once we are committed to the project, then we have a better chance to ensure its totality,” Menendez said.
Rail access to New York City has taken on a new urgency following Amtrak’s revelation last year that the existing two-track tunnel, built 104 years ago, will fail within 20 years because of damage from Superstorm Sandy flooding. Before then, delays will become common for Amtrak and NJ Transit, which uses Amtrak’s Hudson tunnel, because of periodic closures to stabilize it.
Gateway calls for a new two-track tunnel under the river and other construction, including new or rebuilt bridges in the Meadowlands, to provide four tracks between Newark and New York City. The next few months will be critical in determining whether the project moves off the drawing board, because Congress faces a May deadline for a new transportation bill.
SERVICE ADVISORY: NJ TRANSIT NEW YEARS EVE SERVICE
IMPORTANT NOTE: No open containers of alcohol will be permitted on board trains, light rail vehicles, aboard buses or in any NJ TRANSIT facility. This policy will be strictly enforced on New Year’s Eve and after midnight.
On New Year’s Eve, Wednesday, December 31, 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 due to expected light ridership—customers should visit njtransit.com and use the “Station-to-Station Trip Planner” to find trains between the holidays. Additional “early getaway” service from Hoboken Terminal will operate on the Pascack Valley and Port Jervis lines in the afternoon. In the evening, additional New York-bound trips will operate on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast and Morris & Essex lines. In addition, certain trips that normally depart just before or just after midnight will operate later to accommodate customers returning from New Year’s festivities.
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, available on njtransit.com, to match service with ridership demand, including early getaway service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal between noon and 4 p.m. to accommodate the heaviest travel, with less frequent service during the peak periods and later in the evening due to lower ridership. Early getaway service will also operate from the Jersey City Waterfront on the No. 64 and No. 68 bus routes. In the evening, additional service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal will be offered on selected routes from approximately 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. to accommodate customers traveling to New York for the festivities.
Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, Newark Light Rail and River Line will operate on a weekday schedule.
In addition, River Line will operate extended late-night service on New Year’s Eve and after midnight on New Year’s Day to accommodate customers attending the festivities on the Camden Waterfront. Special late-night trains will operate between Camden and Trenton, making all local stops.
Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will also operate added late-night service on New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day to accommodate travelers returning home from midnight celebrations.
After midnight, special late-night trains will operate on most rail lines, and expanded bus service will be provided from the Port Authority Bus Terminal until approximately
2 a.m. on selected routes. Visit njtransit.com for details.
On New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1, trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule. River Line will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Holiday bus schedules vary by route—customers are advised to visit njtransit.com for details.
On Friday, January 2, 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 due to expected light ridership—customers should visit njtransit.com and use the “Station-to-Station Trip Planner” to find trains between the holidays. Buses and light rail lines will operate on a weekday schedule. Selected Port Authority Bus Terminal routes will see some reductions in a.m. and p.m. peak service due to lower passenger demand. Please consult njtransit.com for additional details.
NJ TRANSIT OFFERS EXTRA SERVICE AND SAVINGS FOR HOLIDAY WEEK
Money-saving Family Super Saver fares in effect continuously from December 24 until January 5
NEWARK, NJ — NJ TRANSIT is offering extra service for the upcoming holidays to give customers more travel options, whether going to the mall for last-minute shopping, leaving work early for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, or attending New Year’s Eve festivities.
In addition, NJ TRANSIT is giving customers more than two weeks of continuous savings through a special extension of the Family Super Saver Fare, which allows up to two children 11 and younger to travel free with each fare-paying adult. Usually limited to weekends, the Family Super Saver Fare will be in effect for the entire holiday period, starting at 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 24 until 6 a.m. Monday, January 5, on all trains, buses and light rail lines.
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, December 24, 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 will operate on a weekday schedule. Buses will operate on a regular weekday schedule on most routes, with early getaway service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal starting around 1 p.m. to accommodate the heaviest travel. Visit njtransit.com for details.
On Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25, trains will operate on a weekend schedule/major holiday schedule on all rail lines. Newark Light Rail and River Line will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Holiday bus schedules vary by route—customers are advised to visit njtransit.com for details.
On Friday, December 26, 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 due to expected light ridership—customers should visit njtransit.com and use the “Station-to-Station Trip Planner” to find trains between the holidays. Newark Light Rail, Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and River Line will operate on a weekday schedule. Selected Port Authority Bus Terminal routes will see some reductions in a.m. and p.m. peak service due to lower passenger demand. Please consult njtransit.com for additional details.
On Saturday, December 27, trains and buses will operate on a weekend schedule. Newark Light Rail and River Line will operate on a Saturday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule.
On Sunday, December 28, trains and buses will operate on a weekend schedule. Newark Light Rail and River Line will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule.
Extra service to/from New York on selected routes.
Newark Light Rail and River Line on Sunday schedule; HBLR on weekend schedule
On Monday, December 29, and Tuesday, December 30, 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 due to expected light ridership—customers should visit njtransit.com and use the “Station-to-Station Trip Planner” to find trains between the holidays. Buses and light rail lines will operate on a weekday schedule.
On New Year’s Eve, Wednesday, December 31, 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 due to expected light ridership—customers should visit njtransit.com and use the “Station-to-Station Trip Planner” to find trains between the holidays. Additional “early getaway” service from Hoboken Terminal will operate on the Pascack Valley and Port Jervis lines in the afternoon. In the evening, additional New York-bound trips will operate on the Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast and Morris & Essex lines. In addition, certain trips that normally depart just before or just after midnight will operate later to accommodate customers returning from New Year’s festivities.
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, available on njtransit.com, to match service with ridership demand, including early getaway service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal between noon and 4 p.m. to accommodate the heaviest travel, with less frequent service during the peak periods and later in the evening due to lower ridership. Early getaway service will also operate from the Jersey City Waterfront on the No. 64 and No. 68 bus routes. In the evening, additional service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal will be offered on selected routes from approximately 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. to accommodate customers traveling to New York for the festivities.
Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, Newark Light Rail and River Line will operate on a weekday schedule.
In addition, River Line will operate extended late-night service on New Year’s Eve and after midnight on New Year’s Day to accommodate customers attending the festivities on the Camden Waterfront. Special late-night trains will operate between Camden and Trenton, making all local stops.
Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will also operate added late-night service on New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day to accommodate travelers returning home from midnight celebrations.
IMPORTANT NOTE: No open containers of alcohol will be permitted on board trains, light rail vehicles, aboard buses or in any NJ TRANSIT facility. This policy will be strictly enforced on New Year’s Eve and after midnight.
After midnight, special late-night trains will operate on most rail lines, and expanded bus service will be provided from the Port Authority Bus Terminal until approximately
2 a.m. on selected routes. Visit njtransit.com for details.
On New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1, trains will operate on a weekend/major holiday schedule. Newark Light Rail will operate on a Saturday schedule. River Line will operate on a Sunday schedule. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will operate on a weekend schedule. Holiday bus schedules vary by route—customers are advised to visit njtransit.com for details.
On Friday, January 2, 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 due to expected light ridership—customers should visit njtransit.com and use the “Station-to-Station Trip Planner” to find trains between the holidays. Buses and light rail lines will operate on a weekday schedule. Selected Port Authority Bus Terminal routes will see some reductions in a.m. and p.m. peak service due to lower passenger demand. Please consult njtransit.com for additional details.
NJ TRANSIT ANNOUNCES SYSTEMWIDE CROSS-HONORING IN ADVANCE OF NOR’EASTER
Customers advised to check njtransit.com before traveling
December 8, 2014
NEWARK, NJ — As the season’s next Nor’easter storm moves toward the region, NJ TRANSIT operations, customer service and police personnel are taking steps to minimize delays and ensure service reliability and safety. All customers are strongly advised to check njtransit.com before traveling for up-to-the-minute service information before starting their trip.
Systemwide Cross-Honoring in Effect: To give customers additional travel options during expected winter weather conditions, NJ TRANSIT will offer full system wide cross-honoring for the entire service day Tuesday, December 9, enabling customers to use their ticket or pass on an alternate travel mode—rail, bus or light rail. For example, customers who normally take the bus from Rutherford to the Port Authority Bus Terminal may use their bus pass or ticket on the train from Rutherford to New York Penn Station. Similarly, customers who normally take the bus between Atlantic City and Lindenwold may use the Atlantic City Rail Line instead at no additional charge.
NJ TRANSIT will closely monitor the crowds at New York Penn Station, Hoboken Terminal and the Port Authority Bus Terminal and make adjustments to service as necessary.
The Corporation is preparing to minimize disruptions and delays to the extent possible, particularly in light of the potential Nor’easter that may impact portions of the area starting tonight. Rail and light rail crews and equipment are on standby to quickly respond to downed trees, power outages or other issues that may arise. In addition, NJ TRANSIT will be positioning locomotives at strategic locations across the rail system to rapidly respond in the event of a disabled train.
Customers are advised of the following:
Systemwide: NJ TRANSIT plans to operate a regular weekday schedule on Tuesday, December 9. Depending on the impact of the storm, it may be necessary for NJ TRANSIT to modify service as conditions change.
Bus Service: While every effort will be made to continue operating bus service throughout the state, customers may experience delays or detours on their routes in the event of extreme winter weather conditions. Customers are advised to plan accordingly and anticipate disruptions to bus service.
Travel Advice:
For the latest travel information, visit njtransit.com or access our Twitter feed at @NJ_TRANSIT prior to starting your trip. In the event of delays or service adjustments, NJ TRANSIT will provide the most current service information via the My Transit alert system, which delivers travel advisories for your specific trip to your cell phone, PDA or pager. (If you are not yet a My Transit subscriber, we encourage you to sign up at www.njtransit.com/mytransit) Service information is also available by calling (973) 275-5555 or from broadcast traffic reports.
Listen closely to public address announcements at stations for late-breaking service information.
Build additional travel time into your trip to a station, terminal or bus stop.
Stairs, flooring and platforms can be slippery, so please use caution when walking along wet surfaces or any outdoor surface exposed to the weather. Use extra care when boarding or exiting buses and trains.
Report slippery or unsafe conditions to bus operators, train crews or
NJ TRANSIT staff.
If you park, ensure your car is stocked with a snow brush and ice scraper so you can clear your car upon returning to the lot.
NJ TRANSIT is prepared to handle the impending winter weather:
Snow plows and salt spreaders are ready for service and snow-removal contracts are in place with outside vendors.
NJ TRANSIT is well-stocked with 16,000 bags of snow-melting supplies, and hundreds of shovels and snow blowers.
NJ TRANSIT has performed maintenance and testing on its two rail-mounted jet snow blowers in the event they are needed to help clear train tracks of snow and ice, particularly in rail yards.
More than 750 rail switches, switch heaters and overhead wires were inspected as part of NJ TRANSIT’s preventative maintenance program.
Onboard heating systems, thermostats, weather stripping and electronic components have been inspected on NJ TRANSIT railcars, light rail cars and locomotives.
Bus maintenance personnel have inspected and performed necessary maintenance on a fleet of nearly 2,200 buses – from the heating and airbrake systems, to the engine fluids, tires, windshield wipers and doors.
NJ TRANSIT ROLLS OUT NEW RAIL SAFETY VIDEO FOR MIDDLE SCHOOLERS
“Chicken on the Tracks” Video to Promote Rail Safety
November 18, 2014
NEWARK, NJ — At an assembly hosted at Hackensack Middle School, NJ TRANSIT today debuted an updated version of its “Chicken on the Tracks” video, a dramatic depiction of incidents on the rails involving young people – to educate students on the possible consequences of trespassing near rail lines. The video was accompanied by a presentation and interactive session by NJ TRANSIT personnel from the agency’s Office of System Safety.
