SEPTA and NJ Transit Restore Service After Blizzard

SEPTA and NJ Transit restore service on modified schedules after 2 feet of snow

SEPTA, NJ Transit Resume After Blizzard Suspensions

Transit service is returning to southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey after the Blizzard of '26 forced widespread suspensions Monday. SEPTA resumed more than 20 bus routes in Philadelphia and reopened Center City trolley tunnels, while NJ Transit restarted light rail operations on modified schedules. The storm dumped nearly 2 feet of snow across the region Sunday night and Monday, prompting travel bans and emergency declarations.

Storm Triggers Emergency Declarations, Travel Bans

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued a disaster emergency declaration Sunday to allocate storm response resources. New Jersey implemented a travel ban on most roads that expired at noon Monday, with commercial vehicle restrictions ending at 5 p.m. Delaware lifted driving restrictions in New Castle County Monday evening, though Level 2 restrictions remained in Kent and Sussex counties. The coordinated response across three states reflected the storm's severity and widespread impact on transportation networks.

Agencies Restore Service on Modified Schedules

SEPTA hoped to restore some Regional Rail service Monday afternoon and resumed Access Paratransit service at 3 p.m. NJ Transit started operations around 4 p.m. Monday with Newark Light Rail and River Line running on Sunday schedules. Hudson-Bergen Light Rail resumed around 6 p.m. on a weekend schedule. On Tuesday, most NJ Transit rail services will operate on Presidents Day schedules, while bus, Light Rail, and Access Link services will run on regular weekday schedules.

Gradual Return to Normal Operations Expected

Transit agencies didn't specify when full weekday service levels would resume across all lines. The phased restoration approach allows crews to clear tracks and assess infrastructure after the historic snowfall. Officials said the gradual return helps ensure safety while managing the transition from emergency operations to regular schedules.

Riders Face Continued Delays During Recovery

Commuters should expect possible delays, cancellations, or detours as services return to normal, transit officials said. The storm's impact on infrastructure and staffing will likely affect operations for several days. Moovit provides real-time updates for SEPTA and NJ Transit routes to help riders navigate schedule changes and service adjustments during the recovery period.