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Signal problems on the River Draw Bridge lead to suspension of rail service on the North Jersey Coast Line; commuters frustrated by ongoing problems

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According to NJ Transit, rail service on the North Jersey Coast Line remained suspended in both directions Thursday due to signaling problems on the River Draw Bridge.

The River Draw Bridge spans the Raritan River between Perth Amboy and South Amboy. Some of the stations affected include: Bay Head, Point Pleasant Beach, Manasquan, Spring Lake, Belmar, Bradley Beach, Asbury Park, Allenhurst, Elberon, Long Branch, Monmouth Park, Little Silver, Red Bank, Middletown, Hazlet, Aberdeen-Matawan, South Amboy, Perth Amboy, Woodbridge and Avenel.


In a statement to News 12 New Jersey, NJ Transit said the signal blockage on the bridge prevented a full closure. Officials said crews are working as quickly as possible to restore service. The cause is currently under investigation.

NJ Transit provided an update at 4 p.m., saying service was still suspended eight hours later, but emergency crews were still on scene.

Commuters frustrated by ongoing problems in rail transport

“The week before the toll increase, they broke down on the way home, and this week they broke down on the way out, so nothing unusual for them,” said commuter Andy Nuzer of Point Pleasant. “Ugh, listen. Either that or pay a million dollars for the toll on the way out. So which poison do you want?”

Sayreville resident Teddy Leandro said, “I’m a little upset about this. This is the first time I’ve had to go to Manhattan for work. This messed up all my plans today. I wish there had been some kind of warning. I only found out two seconds ago and I’m not happy.”

Jenna Treimel of South Amboy expressed her frustration with the suspensions, saying it was disappointing.

“NJ Transit just shows up and sees the ride is canceled when I have to be at work at 7:30. But luckily we have the ferry. The ferry isn’t free though, so I have to pay $20 out of pocket. You have to do what you have to do,” she said.

Allison Harriott, also of South Amboy, said it’s frustrating. “My heart is racing because I want to keep my job and I don’t want this to be a problem,” she said.

NJ Transit rail tickets and passes are accepted by NJ Transit and private bus companies alike. Click here for more information on alternate routes.

News 12 New Jersey has reached out to NJ Transit for comment and is awaiting a response.

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