A contractor trimming trees on private property in Bloomfield inadvertently knocked down a utility pole and overhead electrical wires across train tracks, halting NJ Transit rail service on the electrified line between the Newark Broad Street and Bay Street stations in Essex County, officials said.

Service on that stretch of the Montclair-Boonton Line was suspended because of downed overhead wires around Watsessing Avenue shortly before noon, officials said.

While repairs are being made, passengers are able to exchange their rail tickets for tickets to NJ Transit or DeCamp buses, and substitute busing also is being offered between Newark Broad Street and Bay Street stations, officials said.

Service initially was suspended on the Montclair-Boonton line in both directions, but is once again available between the Montclair State University and Bay Street stations.

“A preliminary investigation found that the downed lines resulted from a downed power pole — triggered by a tree trimming contractor working on private property,” said John Durso Jr., an NJ Transit spokesman. “The contractor was not working for and is not affiliated with NJ Transit.”

"This is an unfortunate series of events involving matters outside NJ Transit's control," he added.

Train stops between Newark Broad Street and Bay Street include Watsessing, Bloomfield and Glen Ridge.

For more scheduling and service information, customers can visit www.njtransit.com.

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