The Hoboken PATH Station has shut down for nearly a month, forcing 20,000 daily commuters to change their routines.
The closure, which began at 11:59 p.m. on January 30, will last until 5 a.m. on February 25 as part of a $430 million project to improve the station’s aging infrastructure.
Since this station is a major transit hub between New Jersey and Manhattan, many riders are now struggling to find alternative ways to get to work.
According to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the fastest way to complete the work is to shut down the station for 25 days straight.
Otherwise, repairs would have taken an entire year if done only on weekends.
While this decision makes sense for long-term improvements, it has caused major disruptions for commuters, who now rely on buses, ferries, and light rail—many of which are now overcrowded.
At the same time, the cold winter weather is making the situation even more difficult.
Many commuters now have to wait outside for buses and ferries, dealing with delays and congestion as they try to reach their destinations.
- The Hoboken PATH Station is closed from January 30 to February 25, forcing 20,000 commuters to find new ways to travel between New Jersey and Manhattan.
- The closure is part of a $430 million project to replace tracks, upgrade the station, and improve reliability, but it is causing longer commutes and crowded transit options.
- Commuters can use buses, ferries, and free shuttle services, but they should expect delays, plan extra time, and check for service updates.
Why the Repairs Are Necessary
The Hoboken PATH Station is 117 years old, and over time, its tracks, platforms, and switches have deteriorated.
One of the biggest upgrades involves replacing 4,500 feet of track in the tunnels leading into the station.
Whereas this section is critical to PATH operations, officials say that replacing it will make the system more reliable and efficient in the future.
Additionally, the station’s interlocking track system, which controls train movement, is being upgraded to prevent delays caused by outdated equipment.
Along with that, workers are rebuilding the station’s concrete platform and four stairways to improve safety and accessibility for passengers.
The Port Authority decided to do this work in February because this is one of the least busy months of the year.
As a result, officials hope to minimize the number of people affected while still completing the upgrades as quickly as possible.
How Commuters Are Getting to Manhattan Without the PATH
Since the PATH station is closed, commuters have no choice but to find other ways to travel.
To help with the transition, the Port Authority and NJ Transit have added extra buses, ferries, and shuttles.
However, even with these options, many people are experiencing longer travel times and more crowded conditions.
One major adjustment is the increase in NJ Transit bus service, particularly on the No. 126 bus, which runs between Hoboken and the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan.
Although more buses have been added, many riders still face delays due to heavy traffic in and around the city.
Meanwhile, the Port Authority has introduced free PATH shuttle buses, which operate 24/7 between Hoboken, Newport, and Exchange Place stations.
These shuttles run every 5 to 7 minutes during rush hour, every 10 minutes during midday and evening, and every 15 minutes overnight.
Even so, many commuters say buses are filling up quickly, and delays are common.
Another option is the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR), which continues to run on its regular schedule.
However, because so many displaced PATH riders are now using it, trains are becoming much more crowded during peak hours.
In addition, the NY Waterway ferry has expanded service between Hoboken and Manhattan, running every 10 minutes during peak hours.
Ferry service has also been extended until 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends, giving commuters more flexibility.
To encourage more riders to use this option, the fare has been reduced to $3 per ride, the same as a PATH ticket.
Despite these efforts, many commuters are still frustrated.
Some say their trips now take 20 to 30 minutes longer, while others struggle with long lines and unpredictable wait times.
The cold weather has only made things worse, as riders now have to stand outside in the wind and freezing temperatures while waiting for their bus or ferry.
Adjustments to Transit Services to Handle the Increased Demand
As so many people have switched to buses and ferries, NJ Transit and the Port Authority have made several changes to keep things running smoothly.
For one, NJ Transit has added more No. 126 buses and created additional pick-up points at Washington and First Street, Washington and 11th Street, and Clinton Street and First Street.
Nevertheless, transit officials warn commuters to expect crowded buses and possible delays, especially during peak commuting hours.
To accommodate the extra buses, the City of Hoboken has removed parking on several key streets, including Observer Highway and Washington Street, during peak morning hours.
At the same time, PATH has increased train service at nearby stations.
During peak hours, trains are now arriving every 2 to 4 minutes at Newport and every 5 minutes or less at Exchange Place.
A temporary train line between the World Trade Center and 33rd Street has also been introduced to provide another alternative for displaced riders.
For those who prefer biking, Citi Bike’s valet service at Hoboken Terminal remains open during rush hours, giving commuters another option to avoid the crowded trains and buses.
How Commuters Are Adjusting to the Changes
With the station closed for nearly a month, many commuters have had to completely rethink their daily routines.
Some have managed to adjust to the new routes, but others are still struggling with longer waits, packed buses, and unpredictable delays.
NJ Transit and the Port Authority officials remind commuters to plan ahead and allow extra time for their trips.
They also encourage riders to check for real-time updates on the NJ Transit website and mobile app, the Port Authority’s Hoboken Station Closure Web Page, and the NY Waterway website for ferry schedules.
Not to mention, PATH Director and General Manager Clarelle DeGraffe has reassured riders that these improvements are necessary and will lead to a better commuting experience in the future.
Although the temporary closure is inconvenient, she emphasized that the upgrades will result in a smoother, more reliable PATH system once the work is finished.
What to Expect Until the Station Reopens
While the station remains closed, commuters should continue to expect longer travel times and crowded conditions.
The Port Authority, NJ Transit, and the City of Hoboken monitor the situation and may make further adjustments if needed.
Until the station reopens on February 25, riders must leave extra time for travel, explore different routes, and stay informed about any service updates.
Although the closure is causing a lot of frustration, officials are hopeful that once the project is complete, the PATH system will be much better for everyone.
For now, commuters have no choice but to adjust to the temporary changes, hoping that the improvements will make future travel smoother and more efficient.
