The PATH station returns to active service after a 25-day closure for essential repairs. This reopening follows a $430 million restoration initiative, addressing issues from dated tracks and switch upgrades to the refurbishment of train cars and replacing Superstorm Sandy-damaged equipment, reports FOX 5 New York.
The necessary upgrades to the Hoboken PATH station, allowing crews to carry out the terminal modernization and the replacement of concrete platforms, and the aging railway system dating back 117 years have been fixed without resorting to a full year of weekend service reductions. As stated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, these major works were completed in an effort to maintain and enhance the station's operations. Meanwhile, about 20,000 daily patrons of the Hoboken Terminal felt the impact of the shutdown, as they had to find alternative routes, FOX 5 New York added.
During the station's temporary closure, riders were not left without options. Alternate transportation means were provided, including honoring PATH tickets on New York Waterway ferries and increased services from New Jersey Transit, according to ABC 7 New York. Commuters also had access to free shuttle buses linking them to other PATH stops, as part of the Port Authority's mitigation strategy.
"This hasn't been that bad, it's only added about 10 minutes to my commute but I'm excited it's back," one commuter, hopeful about the station's reopening. This sentiment was captured in a statement obtained by ABC 7 New York.
