NJ Transit Announces Systemwide Service Suspensions Ahead of Winter Storm
NJ Transit has announced temporary systemwide service suspensions for Sunday due to an anticipated winter storm impacting New Jersey, prioritizing the safety of riders and employees.
Service Suspension Details
- Bus, Light Rail, and Access Link: Service will be suspended starting at 4:00 AM on Sunday.
- Rail Service: Will operate on a regular weekend schedule until 2:00 PM, then cease for the remainder of the day.
Riders must reach their final destination by 2:00 PM. Details on final eastbound and westbound trains will be available on njtransit.com.
Service will remain suspended through the end of Sunday and will only resume when conditions safely permit. Updates on Monday's service will be provided on Sunday as storm impacts are assessed.
Official Recommendations
NJ Transit supports Governor Sherrill's recommendation for New Jersey residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. This measure aims to keep roads clear, facilitating quicker snow removal by local, county, and state crews, which in turn helps restore NJ Transit services.
Ongoing Operations
Even during the passenger service suspension, trains and light rail vehicles may be observed operating. These vehicles are utilized to clear tracks, switches, and overhead wires of snow and ice, not for passenger transport.
Motorists and pedestrians should continue to adhere to railroad crossing gates and use designated crossings.
Preparedness and Emergency Response
NJ Transit's Emergency Operations Center will monitor weather conditions throughout the storm, with key personnel deployed in the field and at facilities to address any issues promptly.
Crews are conducting extensive preparations for a safe and gradual return to service:
Rail Preparations
- Rail cars and locomotives have undergone winterization, including inspections of heating systems, ventilation, thermostats, weather stripping, and electronics.
- Locomotive fuel and filters have been switched to winter blends.
- Over 750 switches and switch heaters, overhead wire systems, 12 movable bridges, and wayside power systems have been inspected.
- Jet-engine-powered snow blowers and snowplow-equipped locomotives are ready.
- Salt supplies are stocked, and tree-trimming crews are on standby.
Bus Preparations
- Maintenance teams have checked heating systems, engine fluids, tires, windshield wipers, doors, and air brake systems for over 2,000 buses.
- Snowfighting equipment and winter supplies are prepared for 52 bus loops, terminals, and parking lots.
- Bulk salt supplies are stocked at garages.
Light Rail Preparations
- Snowplows are ready for station platforms and park-and-ride lots.
- Switch heaters have been tested across all three light rail systems.
- Supplies like calcium chloride, snow shovels, and scrapers are staged.
- Snow blowers and backup generators have been checked.
Stations/Terminals Preparations
- Stations will be pretreated with salt, and all rail station heaters have been inspected.
- Staff will monitor platforms for safe walking conditions.
Rider Information
Riders are advised to frequently check njtransit.com for the latest information on service resumption. Updates and alerts can also be accessed by:
- Signing up for My Transit Alerts
- Downloading the NJ TRANSIT mobile app
- Following NJ TRANSIT on social media