Transit Advocates Call for PATH Expansion and Off-Peak Service Improvements (2025)

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Transit Advocates Call for PATH Expansion and Off-Peak Service Improvements (1)byAlexis McDonell

Transit Advocates Call for PATH Expansion and Off-Peak Service Improvements (2)

Transit advocates are rallying for significant improvements to the PATH system, with a campaign that has already generated over 400 letters to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The coalition is urging the authority to prioritize increased off-peak service frequency and extend the PATH network to Newark Airport as part of its 2025 budget planning.

Despite significant capital investments in recent years—such as new trains, maintenance projects, and a digital payments system—the PATH system is falling short of meeting the region’s transportation demands. While ridership has returned to pre-pandemic levels, the PATH’s service frequency and limited network remain inadequate for the growing needs of residents, commuters, and travelers.

“It’s gotten pretty bad over the last few years with the frequency on off-peak times and night times and on weekends. A lot of working people work evenings and weekends in our region, and they deserve to have the dignity of a good transportation system, just as people who work nine to five do,” said Johan Andrade, President of Hudson County Complete Streets. “Part of this campaign is for us to bring some equity to the transportation space here in New Jersey.”

One of the primary concerns is the PATH’s infrequent off-peak service. Trains currently run every 20 to 40 minutes on weekends, weeknights, and midday weekdays, leading to overcrowded stations, delays, and missed connections. Advocates argue that this is unacceptable, especially since the system has the capacity to operate at two-minute intervals during rush hour. They are calling for trains to run every five minutes during off-peak hours to improve reliability and reduce congestion.

The coalition is also pushing for the PATH’s extension to Newark Airport. Currently, the PATH terminates three miles from the airport, requiring riders to transfer to NJ Transit and then to the AirTrain. Meanwhile, the Port Authority’s proposed $3.5 billion AirTrain project has drawn criticism on social media for being over budget and failing to meet the region’s needs.

Advocates are proposing a direct PATH extension to Newark Airport, which would provide a fast, one-seat ride for travelers, airport workers, and Newark residents. This extension would also enhance transit access for South Newark residents commuting to New York City, Jersey City, or the airport itself, reducing dependence on cars and alleviating congestion at the airport.

To make these improvements happen, advocates are stressing the need for stronger collaboration between the Port Authority and other transit agencies, like NJ Transit, to address issues such as misaligned schedules and a lack of fare integration.

“On weekends, NJ Transit trains might run once an hour, and if the PATH train to Newark runs every 40 minutes, a simple 30-minute trip can turn into an hour and a half,” explained John Taranu, an organizer for HCCS. “Of course, people are going to take other options.”

By working with experts and agency leaders, the coalition aims to overcome operational challenges and improve regional transit connectivity.

In addition to these two core proposals, the coalition is calling for extended hours of operation for the Lincoln Tunnel Express Bus Lanes, transitioning them to a 24/7 schedule. They are also advocating for comprehensive transit alternatives to prepare for the anticipated effects of congestion pricing.

Advocates are encouraging public participation through an ongoing letter-writing campaign, which has seen substantial growth in recent weeks. The coalition plans to bring its demands directly to the Port Authority Board during its meeting on December 12. Letters can be submitted via the campaign’s platform.

“We want the Port Authority to acknowledge the concerns we’ve raised—both through public comments at last week’s budget hearings and the hundreds of letters we’ve sent. We’re not here to fight then or ridicule them; we’re here to help identify the issues riders face daily and work together on solutions,” said Andrade.

“This campaign has struck a chord with so many people because improving the PATH is a shared goal—it’s good for the economy, the environment, and the entire region. By harnessing this collective energy, we can make meaningful change,” added Taranu.

Alexis McDonell

Alexis is a freelance writer and marketing professional based out of Jersey City. She graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in journalism and is passionate about exploring a wide range of topics,...More by Alexis McDonell

Transit Advocates Call for PATH Expansion and Off-Peak Service Improvements (2025)
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