The Hoboken PATH station has officially closed for 25 days as part of a major system upgrade, leaving thousands of daily commuters searching for alternate ways to get into New York City. The station closure, which began just before midnight, is expected to last until 5 a.m. on February 25. Let’s break down what this means for you and how to navigate the disruption.
Why Is the Hoboken PATH Station Closing?
This closure is part of a $430 million system-wide investment aimed at improving the 117-year-old PATH network. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey stated that the work includes significant repairs and updates to the station and the tunnels leading to it.
Instead of spreading this work over weekends for a full year, the agency chose a complete station closure to finish faster. The upgrades include:
- Repairing 4,500 feet of tracks
- Updating platforms, switches, and train cars
- Addressing damages from Superstorm Sandy (2012)
Travel Alternatives for Commuters
To reduce the impact on an estimated 20,000 daily riders, several alternative travel options have been arranged:
1. Free 24/7 Shuttle Bus Service
Free shuttle buses will run between Hoboken and the Newport/Exchange Place stations, where commuters can connect to PATH trains.
Shuttle Schedule:
Weekdays:
- 12 a.m. to 5:59 a.m.: Every 15 minutes
- 6 a.m. to 10:59 a.m.: Every 5 to 7 minutes
- 11 a.m. to 2:59 p.m.: Every 10 minutes
- 3 p.m. to 7:59 p.m.: Every 5 to 7 minutes
- 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.: Every 10 minutes
Weekends:
- 12 a.m. to 5:59 a.m.: Every 15 minutes
- 6 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.: Every 10 minutes
2. PATH Train Adjustments
- PATH will increase service frequency at Newport and Exchange Place stations.
- Trains will run every 2 to 4 minutes at Newport and every 5 minutes or less at Exchange Place during peak hours.
- A temporary weekday PATH train will operate directly between World Trade Center and 33rd Street stations.
3. NJ Transit Bus Services
- NJ Transit will boost service on the No. 126 line bus running from Hoboken to the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
- Additional buses will serve stops along Washington Street, Willow Avenue, and Clinton Street.
Standard bus fares apply for trips to NYC. Riders can purchase tickets via the NJ Transit app or at ticket machines.
4. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR)
- NJ Transit will add extra trains on the HBLR during rush hours to support commuters.
5. NY Waterway Ferries
Ferry services will be cross-honored and expanded. NY Waterway ferries will run from:
- The PATH/NJ Transit station terminal
- The 14th Street terminal in Hoboken
- The Midtown/West 39th Street terminal in Manhattan
Ferry operating hours:
- Weekdays until 10 p.m.
- Weekends until 12 a.m.
Commuters can ride the ferry for $3 (the cost of a one-way PATH ticket) by purchasing special PATH Ferry Tickets on the NY Waterway App or at ferry ticket counters. Riders must show a valid PATH fare card (SmartLink Card, MetroCard, or RidePATH App pass) when boarding.
Why February Is the Chosen Time
Port Authority officials believe February is the ideal time for the closure since it typically sees lower ridership compared to other months. Although some riders have expressed frustration—especially after recent fare hikes and NYC’s new congestion pricing policies—transit officials say this approach is better than long-term weekend disruptions.
What to Expect
Commuters should prepare for longer travel times and more crowded buses and trains. NJ Transit advises riders to plan ahead and be aware of possible delays, especially during rush hours. Despite the temporary inconvenience, Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton assured that this plan will fast-track repairs and minimize long-term disruptions.
“We understand this closure is inconvenient, but it allows us to complete necessary upgrades in a short time,” Cotton said. “We remain committed to providing multiple travel options and full transparency during the process.”
The Hoboken PATH station closure may be a temporary setback, but it’s a critical step towards improving the long-term efficiency of the PATH system. Commuters should take advantage of the free shuttles, expanded ferry services, and additional transit options to navigate this challenging month. Once the station reopens, riders can expect smoother and more reliable service as a result of the upgrades.
