By: Richard L. Smith
Today marks a critical test for New Jersey’s rail system as construction tied to the new Portal North Bridge forces significant service changes across NJ Transit lines.
The century-old Portal Bridge over the Hackensack River — long known for mechanical failures and delays — is being replaced as part of the Gateway Program.
Transit officials say the new fixed-span bridge will dramatically improve long-term reliability, but commuters are now facing temporary disruptions as crews complete key track and signal work.
Under the current service plan, many weekday Midtown Direct trains on the Morris & Essex, Gladstone Branch and Montclair-Boonton lines are being diverted to Hoboken Terminal instead of New York Penn Station.
Riders will need to transfer to PATH trains, ferries, or buses to reach Manhattan. Rail tickets are being cross-honored on select alternate services.
NJ Transit has warned that this will be a systemwide impact, with modified schedules, possible cancellations and longer travel times. Officials are urging commuters to leave early, expect crowding and exercise patience — especially during peak hours.
Phase One of the transition also includes a strong request from NJ Transit leadership for riders to work from home if possible to help ease congestion during this adjustment period.
Transit officials say the inconvenience is temporary, but today will be a major test of how smoothly the region’s rail network can handle the shift.