NJ Transit Trains Gradually Returning To Action After Storm

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Service for many NJ Transit riders has been restored after Tropical Storm Isaias, which saw widespread power outages and scores of downed trees throughout the state. But as of Thursday afternoon, other lines remain suspended as workers scramble to repair damaged overhead wires and signal systems.

There’s a light at the end of the tunnel for riders on the North Jersey Coast Line, which will resume service at 3 p.m. on Thursday. The line will run on a weekend schedule, with 15-minute delays in both directions due to single tracking, NJ Transit officials said.

Service has also been restored on the Montclair-Boonton Line for Friday, Aug. 7. It will operate on a weekend schedule.

The Morris/Essex and Gladstone Branch lines remain suspended for Friday, however.

"Crews are working around the clock to repair extensive damage to signal systems and overhead wires, which power the trains," NJ Transit officials said. "Once personnel clear the area and restore the wires, the infrastructure will have to undergo inspections before service can resume."

Service was previously restored on the Northeast Corridor, Raritan Valley Line, Main/Bergen County, Port Jervis and Pascack Valley lines operating on a weekend schedule. The Atlantic City Rail Line is operating on a regular weekday schedule.

Bus, light rail and Access Link services are operating on a regular weekday schedule. Rail tickets and passes are being cross-honored with PATH at Newark Penn Station, Hoboken, and 33rd Street, NJ Transit light rail, bus and private carriers.

Since the storm on Tuesday, NJ Transit crews have cleared more than 300 downed trees across its system. As a result of the blocked tracks, some equipment remains out of its proper placement to operate full rail service, officials said Thursday.

The agency has been sharing photos of the cleanup efforts on social media.

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