NEW JERSEY (PIX11) -- Members of Hudson County Complete Streets tell PIX11 News that although the population in both Hudson and Essex counties has increased over the years, the PATH is running less frequently.
“I couldn’t handle the commute time anymore,” said Stephanie Martinez from North Bergen, who has been riding the path her whole life.
Last year, Martinez decided to move to Newark after getting a job, because she found that taking the PATH was so infuriating.
“I had to wait so long and also anxiety about the rush that the doors won’t close, and I had to wait another 30 minutes for the next one,” she added.
“All we are asking is for the governors and Port Authority to come to the table and commit to a plan to bring the system up to modern standards” said one of the more than 5,000 Hudson and Essex Counties residents who signed a petition asking for more frequent train service during off- peak hours on nights and weekends.
According to Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla, PATH trains come every two minutes during peak hours compared to 20 to 40 minutes during off-peak hours.
“If the Port Authority is serious about prioritizing people over cars, they would make the necessary investments to get the necessary services during off-peak hours,” said Bhalla.
Passengers such as Armani Ramsey, who ride the path between New York and New Jersey, also want this.
“We want our trains to be less crowded. You are getting smooshed on like a sardine. Even if you wait for 1, 2, or 3 trains, even those trains are still crowded.”
David Ciano from the Better Path campaign is also asking for other changes. “We are also asking for an extension to Newark Airport on the PATH. The last time the path was extended and a new stop was added was in 1917,” said Ciano.
PIX11 News contacted the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, following up on the demands of the riders and to see if they have read the petition.
A Port Authority spokesperson sent the following statement: “Our $430 million PATH Forward program requires work that is scheduled during lower ridership periods on the 24/7 PATH system. This critical work can lead to longer wait times between trains, which can lead to more crowded platforms and trains. The end result of this two-year rehabilitation program will be improved service reliability, faster speeds, and modernized stations. We are committed to improving PATH service for all riders, including weekend and late-night service.”
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