NJ Transit Warns of Delays and Cancellations for Next Month

Commuters should prepare for disruptions, especially to Manhattan, due to the partial closure of the Portal Bridge.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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NJ Transit is warning passengers to expect significant service disruptions, including fewer trains and changes to normal routes, over the next month due to the partial closure of the Portal Bridge between Newark and Secaucus. The agency is advising commuters to consider alternative transportation options like buses, the PATH train, and ferries to get to New York City.

Why it matters

The Portal Bridge is a critical piece of infrastructure for NJ Transit, and its closure will have a major impact on the agency's ability to provide reliable service to Manhattan. This will create challenges for many commuters who rely on NJ Transit to get to work in the city.

The details

During the month-long closure, NJ Transit will be cutting its weekday service over the Portal Bridge by nearly half, from 332 trains down to 178. The agency's Midtown Direct service, which takes riders on several northern New Jersey lines directly into Penn Station, will also be halted, forcing those passengers to get off in Hoboken and switch to other modes of transportation. Riders on the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Line that still run into Penn Station will likely face more crowded trains than usual.

  • The partial closure of the Portal Bridge will begin on February 17, 2026 and last for approximately one month.

The players

NJ Transit

The public transportation system serving the state of New Jersey, including bus, rail, and light rail services.

Portal Bridge

A critical piece of infrastructure that carries NJ Transit rail lines between Newark and Secaucus.

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What’s next

NJ Transit has provided detailed backup guides on its website outlining alternative transportation options for commuters, including bus, PATH train, and ferry services. The agency is advising passengers to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time during the disruptions.

The takeaway

The partial closure of the Portal Bridge will have a significant impact on NJ Transit's ability to provide reliable service to Manhattan over the next month. Commuters should review NJ Transit's guidance and consider alternative transportation options to avoid delays and crowding on the reduced rail service.