How Will The Closure Of Hoboken PATH Station Impact Harrison Residents

The closure of the Hoboken PATH station by the Port Authority of NY/NJ (Port Authority) from January 30, 2025, through February 25, 2025 (25 days) is likely to significantly affect traffic volume at nearby PATH stations. Although the Harrison PATH station is not mentioned by the Port Authority as an alternative PATH station, there is no doubt that the Harrison PATH station will be impacted. Here are some potential impacts:

1.  Increased Ridership: With Hoboken serving as a major transit hub, its closure will redirect a substantial number of commuters to alternative routes. Harrison PATH station: Although not the number one alternative to replace the Hoboken PATH station, the Harrison PATH station could be the best alternative for those who commute to Hoboken by car and take the PATH train into New York City. There is plenty of parking at the Harrison Parking Garage, which is right next to the New York City-bound train.
2. Capacity and Congestion: The increased flow of passengers might lead to more crowded trains and platforms, particularly during peak hours. This could strain the station's capacity and potentially lead to longer wait times or even delays as more trains might be required to handle the additional passenger load. Some may get off NJ Transit trains that would go to Hoboken and instead take the Newark Subway Light Rail from the Broad Street Station to Newark Penn Station to hop on the PATH train. PATH trains may already be packed when they get to the Harrison PATH station on stopover.
3. Parking and Local Traffic: If more commuters choose to drive to Harrison to catch the PATH train due to the closure in Hoboken, there might be increased demand for parking facilities and possibly more local traffic congestion around the Harrison PATH station.
4. Service Adjustments: The Port Authority might adjust service patterns to accommodate the change in passenger volumes. This could mean more frequent service from Harrison or changes in the scheduling to manage the expected increase in demand.
5. Economic Impact: Local businesses in Harrison might experience changes in customer foot traffic, potentially benefiting from increased commuters passing through but also facing challenges if congestion deters regular customers.

Overall, while the increased usage of the Harrison PATH station could bring certain benefits like more frequent services and local economic boosts, it will likely also pose challenges in terms of managing increased passenger volumes and maintaining service efficiency.

It is a shame that Port Authority has not included the Harrison PATH station in its list of alternative ways to get to New York City.  Yes, the Town of Harrison is west of Hoboken but not all commuters who use the Hoboken PATH station live in Hoboken, and those whose routine is to commute in their car to Hoboken and then take the PATH could realign their daily routine and head to the Harrison Parking Garage and walk to the PATH train right next door.

What are your thoughts on the effect of the closure of the Hoboken PATH station?  Do you think Port Authority should update its website to include the Harrison PATH station as an alternative way to commute to New York City?

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