By: Richard L. Smith
A sweeping winter storm that pummeled New Jersey on Sunday forced New Jersey Transit to halt much of its service early, leaving many commuters still waiting for transportation well into Monday as snow-packed streets and icy conditions slowed recovery efforts.
According to a service advisory released by NJ Transit, the agency suspended all rail service after 2 p.m. Sunday, January 25 as the storm intensified and dropped heavy snow and sleet across the region.
Bus, light rail and Access Link services were temporarily shut down at 4 a.m. Sunday in anticipation of hazardous weather.
The decision was made out of safety concerns, as crews worked to keep rails clear and prevent dangerous situations for riders and employees.
NJ Transit warned in its release that trains and light rail vehicles might still be moving, without passengers, to keep wires and tracks free of snow and ice, but regular service would not resume until conditions improved.
Commuters throughout North Jersey reported hours-long waits for buses that never arrived and stalled travel plans as plows struggled to keep up with rapid snowfall.
Deep snow and slick roads have made it difficult for buses to navigate neighborhoods, forcing many drivers to turn back or delay routes for safety.
The extreme weather has not only immobilized transit operations but also made road travel perilous, with snow-covered streets and black ice creating treacherous conditions for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Authorities have consistently advised residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary while crews work to clear major thoroughfares.
NJ Transit officials say they are monitoring conditions closely and plan to gradually restore service once it is safe to do so, but many commuters say they remain stranded as of Monday morning.
Riders are being urged to check the agency’s website and mobile app for the latest updates on service resumptions.
The storm has brought widespread disruption beyond transit, with schools closed and emergency declarations issued as New Jersey grapples with heavy snow and dangerously cold temperatures.