NJ TRANSIT Contingency Plan for Possible Rail Service Disruption

Possible Strike: The BLET is threatening a strike as early as May 16 at 12:01 AM, which would completely suspend NJ TRANSIT rail service, including Metro-North Railroad west of Hudson service.

Contingency Plan: NJ TRANSIT's plan includes adding limited capacity to existing New York commuter bus routes near rail stations and contracting with private carriers to operate bus service from key regional Park & Ride locations during weekday peak periods.

Limited Capacity: NJ TRANSIT estimates it can only accommodate approximately 20% of current rail customers via alternative modes due to bus system capacity limitations.

Focus on High-Demand Areas: The contingency plan prioritizes resources for the more than 70,000 New York-bound customers, including those transferring to PATH trains at Hoboken Terminal and Newark Penn Station.

Why This Matters: A rail service disruption would significantly impact commuters and the regional economy. Understanding the contingency plans and alternative travel options is crucial for those who rely on NJ TRANSIT.

Regional Park & Ride Service: Service from Secaucus Junction, PNC Bank Arts Center, Hamilton Rail Station, and Woodbridge Center Mall to various destinations in New York and New Jersey. These will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Secaucus Junction to Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT): 6 AM – 9:30 AM inbound, 3 PM – 7:30 PM outbound.

PNC Bank Arts Center to PABT: 5 AM – 8 AM inbound, 3:30 PM – 7:30 PM outbound (Operated by Academy Bus).

Hamilton Rail Station to Newark Penn Station (PATH Transfer): 5 AM – 9 AM inbound, 3 PM – 7 PM outbound.

Woodbridge Center Mall to Harrison PATH Station: 6 AM – 10 AM inbound, 4 PM – 8 PM outbound.

Limited Added Capacity on Existing Bus Routes: Enhancements to peak period service on existing New York bus routes near rail stations.

Ticketing: Existing valid rail tickets and passes with an origin or destination of New York, Newark, or Hoboken will be accepted on Park & Ride services, NJ TRANSIT buses, and light rail lines.

Other Services: Bus, Light Rail, and Access Link services will operate, but customers should expect increased travel times.

Q: What happens if the strike occurs?

A: NJ TRANSIT rail service will be completely suspended. The contingency plan will provide limited alternative transportation options.

Q: Will my rail ticket be valid on other services?

A: Yes, existing valid rail tickets and passes will be cross-honored on NJ TRANSIT bus and light rail lines.

Q: Will NJ TRANSIT tickets be accepted on Amtrak, PATH or other services?

A: No. NJ TRANSIT tickets and passes will not be accepted on Amtrak, PATH, PATCO, SEPTA, ferry, or private carrier buses. Customers using these services must purchase separate tickets.

If possible, work from home and limit travel on NJ TRANSIT during the potential strike period.

Familiarize yourself with the contingency plan and alternative transportation options.

Check njtransit.com/railstoppage?ref=yanuki.com for the latest travel information.

Existing rail tickets will be honored on buses and light rail.