Newark Today: Transit Disruptions, Arts Milestones, and Neighborhood Grants

Newark, NJ — February 17, 2026 — Rail riders see major schedule changes, the city’s glass arts hub hits a milestone, and residents get a new chance to fund neighborhood projects.

Rail cutover reshapes commutes through Newark

A month-long rail cutover tied to the Portal North Bridge project is reducing train service through the Newark area and diverting many NJ Transit riders to Hoboken instead of New York Penn Station.

Since February 15, Amtrak and NJ Transit have been operating with single-track service between Newark and Secaucus while crews connect new track, catenary and interlockings to bring the Portal North Bridge online. Officials say overall service on affected lines has been cut by roughly half, with some Midtown Direct trains suspended or rerouted.

Riders traveling through Newark are being urged to check updated timetables daily, expect crowding on remaining trains, and use alternate routes including PATH, ferries and buses that are temporarily cross-honoring some rail tickets. Normal schedules are expected to resume in mid-March once testing is complete.

Glass Arts Center celebrates 25 years in Newark

Newark’s Glass Arts Center is marking 25 years of programs that blend public art, workforce training and youth education in the city.

The center is highlighting its anniversary with exhibitions, public demonstrations and stories from local artists who have come through its studios over the past two and a half decades. Organizers say the milestone underscores how arts spaces can anchor neighborhood revitalization while offering hands-on skills in glassblowing, fabrication and design.

Anniversary programming is expected to continue through the year, with visiting artists, workshops and collaborations tied to broader efforts to expand Newark’s arts corridor.

‘Love Your Block’ grants open for neighborhood projects

City residents and community groups now have a new opportunity to fund small-scale improvements through Newark’s latest round of “Love Your Block” grants.

The program offers modest awards to block associations, nonprofits and informal groups for projects that beautify streets, improve vacant lots, or support climate resilience. Past grants have backed everything from tree plantings and pocket parks to litter cleanups and rain gardens.

Officials say the current application period is focused on projects that reduce flooding, manage stormwater and make public spaces more welcoming. Interested groups are being encouraged to partner with neighbors, document local needs and line up volunteer support ahead of the deadline.

On campus and around town

At Rutgers University–Newark, Black History Month events continue this week with lectures, performances and workshops across campus. Today’s schedule includes virtual sessions on research tools and digital exhibits, alongside ongoing cultural programming downtown.

Sources

• https://helm.news/2026-02-16/feb-nj-transit-amtrak-began-replacing-portal-bridge-disrupting-rail.html
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal_North_Bridge
• https://www.tapinto.net/towns/newark/sections/arts-and-entertainment/articles/newark-s-glass-arts-center-celebrates-25-years-of-sparking-change-in-new-jersey-s-largest-city
• https://www.tapinto.net/towns/newark/sections/government/articles/love-your-block-newark-grant-program-open-to-beautify-neighborhoods-strengthen-climate-resilience
• https://events.newark.rutgers.edu/calendar