Hurricane Sandy: The Superstorm

Repairing and Restoring Service

On 10/31/12 NJ Transit bus service began operating in Camden only, on a weekday schedule. While the destructive and deadly storm was gone, it left behind long-term mechanical and operational challenges. NJ Transit restored the majority of its bus service and limited Access Link paratransit service on 11/1/12. River Line light rail service also resumed operations at this time.

On 11/4/12, NJ Transit restored limited service on four additional rail lines.

The Christie Administration announced an emergency bus plan to transport residents to their jobs for 11/5/12. It provided transportation options for NJ Transit customers, with access to ferries, light rail and employment in Hoboken, Weehawken, Jersey City and Manhattan. The temporary emergency service was anticipated to provide approximately 50 percent of NJ Transit’s normal rail rush hour service.

By 11/19/12, all but one NJ Transit rail lines was fully or partially restored. This included the restoration of service along the North Jersey Coast Line, which suffered the brunt of the damage. “The restoration of NJ Transit’s rail lines within 18 days of Sandy is a tremendous credit to the commitment, professionalism and the dedication of our employees,” said NJ Transit Executive Director James Weinstein. “In this time of Thanksgiving, I would like to specifically offer our thanks to our employees for their service, as well as to customers for their patience and understanding during this difficult time.”

For the MTA Metro-North Railroad’s Port Jervis and Pascack Valley lines, nearly normal rail service was being restored.