NJ Transit to Hoboken passengers: Thanks for your patience

NEWARK — NJ Transit is "grateful" for the patience of its passengers who have had to deal with overcrowding and delays because of the closure of the Hoboken terminal and is working to shore up its alternative service.

"We know this is not an optimal commuting environment and that many of our customers have experienced longer wait times and overcrowding due to the ongoing circumstances," the agency said in a statement Tuesday.

NJ Transit had to scramble to establish alternative service for its Hoboken riders following Thursday's crash at the Hoboken station, which killed one person and injured more than 100 people. The NTSB's investigation, as well as concerns about the stability of the station, have kept it unavailable for NJ Transit service.

Hoboken train was going up to 20 miles over speed limit before crash

"The loss of track space at Hoboken Terminal has had the greatest impact on our scheduling and is a key contributor to the crowded conditions our customers are experiencing," NJ Transit said.

NJ Transit said they have added additional trains and shuttle bus service and adjusted schedules to make for a more "realistic timetable," especially during the morning and afternoon commutes. Trains are also operating on a "skip stop" manner in which trains will not stop at an overcrowded station. When that happens, a train or bus will follow up to pick up riders.

An unidentified official told The Associated Press the train was traveling at 20 to 30 mph, well over the 10 mph speed limit, when it slammed into the abutment on Track 5 and crashed through the wall into a reception area.

The NTSB has not indicated when they will release the Hoboken station back to NJ Transit.

Contact reporter Dan Alexander at Dan.Alexander@townsquaremedia.com.