On May 5, 2025, commuters using NJ Transit faced significant disruptions due to a series of delays caused by a signal issue at the Amtrak Portal Bridge. The problems began around 5 p.m., quickly escalating from initial warnings of 20-minute delays to a staggering 60 minutes during the evening rush hour. By 10 p.m., trains were still experiencing delays, albeit reduced to around 15 minutes. Frustrated riders took to social media to voice their dissatisfaction, with one commuter exclaiming, "This is absolutely RIDICULOUS! Been sitting on the tracks not moving for an HOUR!" Another added, "We shouldn't be paying for the tickets for your crappy services. Get real!"
Earlier in the day, the situation worsened when a train broke down in the Hudson River Tunnels, affecting both NJ Transit and Amtrak services. New York City emergency management officials issued warnings for passengers traveling between New York and New Jersey to allow for additional travel time. At one point, NJ Transit reported that rail service in and out of Penn Station New York was facing delays of up to 45 minutes. However, by around 11 a.m., these delays had decreased to approximately 15 minutes.
The signal issue at the Amtrak Portal Bridge, a crucial structure that carries the Northeast Corridor line over the Hackensack River, played a significant role in the day's disruptions. The bridge, which is a 114-year-old moveable structure, occasionally suffers from mechanical failures that prevent it from closing properly, leading to signal malfunctions. This particular incident resulted in delays of up to 30 minutes for NJ Transit trains as the issue persisted into the evening.
Midtown Direct trains were diverted to Hoboken as a result of the ongoing problems, and NJ Transit announced that rail tickets and passes were being cross-honored by private carrier buses and PATH at Newark Penn Station, Hoboken, and 33rd Street in New York. Passengers were encouraged to check http://njtransit.com/ABC for alternate service information.
The Amtrak Portal Bridge is currently undergoing a $2.3 billion replacement project, which is approximately 90% complete. The new bridge is expected to open one track by November 2026 and be fully operational by 2027. This replacement aims to alleviate the frequent issues faced by commuters and enhance the overall reliability of rail services in the region.
As commuters continue to rely on NJ Transit for their daily travel, the agency's ongoing struggles with aging infrastructure highlight the urgent need for improvements. The recent delays serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by public transportation systems, particularly in densely populated areas where millions depend on timely and efficient service.
In the wake of the disruptions, NJ Transit officials have reiterated their commitment to addressing these issues. While the immediate focus remains on resolving the signal problems and ensuring smooth operations, the agency is also looking ahead to the completion of the new Portal Bridge, which promises to enhance service reliability for years to come.
As the evening rush continued on May 5, many commuters were left wondering how much longer they would have to deal with these kinds of delays. The frustrations expressed on social media reflect a broader sentiment among passengers who feel that public transportation should be more dependable. The hope is that with the new bridge on the horizon, such disruptions will become a thing of the past.
