Some NJ Transit Light Rail service resuming Monday evening after historic snowstorm
Gov. Mikie Sherrill and NJ Transit officials announced Monday afternoon that limited light rail service will begin resuming later today as crews continue recovery efforts following a historic snowstorm.
The Newark Light Rail and River Line will resume service at 4 p.m., operating on Sunday schedules. The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will resume service at 6 p.m., operating on a weekend schedule.
All other rail, bus, and Access Link services remain suspended until conditions improve.
Speed limits on the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway are gradually being restored to normal after being reduced to 35 miles per hour during the storm.
“I want to thank NJ Transit and the New Jersey Turnpike Authority crews who are working tirelessly around the clock to restore our transportation systems for the millions of New Jerseyans who rely on them,” Sherrill said. “We are pleased that light rail services are set to return later today.”
A statewide Parkway travel ban has expired, though officials advise motorists to limit travel in that area to essential trips while cleanup continues. The Turnpike is largely cleared in travel lanes, but work continues overnight on ramps and toll plazas.
Acting NJDOT Commissioner and NJ Transit Board Chair Priya Jain said agencies are restoring service cautiously following what officials described as the most significant blizzard in roughly 30 years.
“Our first responsibility is the safety of all who use our transportation resources,” Jain said, praising transportation agencies for a “thoughtful, methodical and strategic” reopening.
The New Jersey Turnpike Authority said speed limits are being increased section-by-section as cleanup continues. The Garden State Parkway south of the Driscoll Bridge in Middlesex County was among the hardest-hit areas.
NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri said crews continue working around the clock to assess storm impacts.
“The safety of our customers, motorists and employees remains our highest priority,” Kolluri said. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we begin the gradual resumption of transit service.”
NJ Transit crews are continuing to clear station platforms, parking lots, and rail infrastructure. Bus garages and facilities remain under snow removal operations as officials evaluate roadway safety.
Officials warned that riders may still see trains operating during the suspension period. These trains are running without passengers to keep tracks and overhead wires clear. Motorists and pedestrians are urged to obey railroad crossings at all times.
Access Link service remains suspended statewide on Monday and is expected to resume Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 2 p.m. if conditions make it safe to operate.
