Massive Delays Anticipated At Lincoln Tunnel Due To Route 495 Viaduct Reconstruction

Massive delays are in the forecast for commuters using the Lincoln Tunnel due to reconstruction of the Route 495 viaduct that will eliminate one lane in each direction.  The project is expected to last for the next two years.  The exclusive bus lane ("XBL") will still be in operation during the morning rush hour for New York City bus traffic.  However, massive delays are still anticipated because there will be one less outbound lane for bus traffic leaving the Port Authority and returning back to New Jersey.  Of course, there have been no contingency plans announced for alternate routes, or any cross honoring NJT tickets on NY Waterway Ferries or trains.  Besides over crowded NJT trains, and ferries, some alternate bus service is available for Northern NJ bus passengers via the George Washington Bridge Bus Station.  More details about the construction are available here. 

NJT - NY Waterway Hudson Go Pass

New Jersey Transit and NY Waterway Ferry have introduced the Hudson Go Pass for commuters using NJT buses 156R, 158, 159R and the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail System.  The pass is good for unlimited rides on these NJT services as well as connecting NY Waterway Ferries from Port Imperial terminal in Weehawken.  The monthly passes cost $280 for ferry trips to midtown and $400 for the downtown ferry service.  We are glad to see the partnership between NJT and NY Waterway to help alleviate overcrowding at the Port Authority Bus Terminal.  However, NY Waterway ferries to New Jersey are still much more expensive than corresponding NJT bus service. More people would be encouraged to switch exclusively to the ferry service if the cost was lowered, which could be accomplished with state-subsidies.  This could be an immediate and simple way to help alleviate the clogged trans-hudson bridges and tunnels as well as the Port Authority Bus Terminal.