NJ Transit began operating trains into and out of Penn Station today for the first time since shutting down service for Hurricane Sandy.

The trains are operating on a modified schedule.

“I never thought I’d be so happy to be on one of these trains,” said one stunned passenger as he got on in Central Jersey.

The few commuters who took advantage of the surprise return to service this morning were rewarded with plenty of seats and timely service in Manhattan.

Special schedules are being posted at http://www.njtransit.com .