NJ Transit Mobilizes Extra Service for March Events

NJ TRANSIT adds extra trains and buses for St. Patrick's Day parades in four cities

NJ TRANSIT Adds St. Patrick's Day Service

NJ TRANSIT will operate enhanced rail and bus service throughout March 2026 for St. Patrick's Day celebrations across the region, transit officials said. The agency's adding extra capacity for parades in Hoboken, New York City, Pearl River, and Belmar, with service modifications beginning March 7. Officials said the expanded service aims to accommodate increased ridership while encouraging riders to use public transit instead of driving.

Service Changes Across Multiple Lines

The enhanced service covers four major celebration dates across the region. For Hoboken celebrations on March 7 and 14, customers on Morristown Line or Gladstone Branch trains should travel through Secaucus due to ongoing Portal North Bridge cutover work, according to the transit agency. On Tuesday, March 17, trains and buses will operate on regular weekday schedules for the New York City parade. Enhanced rail capacity will be provided on the Pascack Valley Line on March 22 for the Pearl River parade.

Shuttle Trains and Alcohol Ban

For the Belmar parade on March 28, NJ TRANSIT will run hourly shuttle trains between Long Branch and Bay Head on the North Jersey Coast Line. A strict beverage ban, including all alcohol whether open or closed, will be enforced on all trains, buses, and platforms during all St. Patrick's Day events, officials said. Customer service ambassadors will be stationed at key locations to assist travelers. The agency advises customers to purchase round-trip tickets in advance and allow extra travel time due to expected crowds.

Implementation Throughout March

The service enhancements begin March 7 with Hoboken celebrations and continue through March 28 for the Belmar parade. Officials said customers should check schedules before traveling, particularly for the Morristown Line and Gladstone Branch routes affected by Portal North Bridge work. The agency didn't specify exact train frequencies for all enhanced service periods, though Belmar shuttle trains will run hourly.

Environmental Benefits for Riders

Using public transit instead of driving reduces carbon footprints by 47% for bus travel and 69% for commuter rail, according to the transit agency. NJ TRANSIT reduces automobile vehicle miles traveled in New Jersey by 1.5 billion annually, officials said. Riders can check real-time updates and plan trips using transit apps. Moovit provides schedule information and service alerts for NJ TRANSIT routes throughout the region.