NJ Transit begins Portal Bridge cutover causing service disruptions

NJ Transit and Amtrak have commenced the final phase of the Portal Bridge cutover, a project aimed at replacing a century-old bridge over the Hackensack River with the new Portal North Bridge. The construction phase, which began Sunday, is expected to last until approximately November 16.

Commuters will face significant service adjustments, including a 50% reduction in trains between Newark and Secaucus and a 10% reduction in overall service. Notably, weekday Midtown Direct trains on the Morris & Essex, Gladstone Branch, and Montclair-Boonton lines will be diverted to Hoboken instead of terminating at New York Penn Station.

The $2.3 billion infrastructure project seeks to decommission the original 1910 bridge to improve long-term reliability. During this period, NJ Transit is cross-honoring tickets on PATH, NY Waterway, and NJ Transit buses. Officials have advised commuters to work from home where possible to mitigate the impact of the delays.