The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and PATH officials marked the start of expanded weekend rail service that officials say will be the system’s largest increase in 25 years.

Beginning at 10 a.m. Sunday, May 17, PATH will operate “Every Line, Every Day” weekend service on all four of its rail lines from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Under the expanded schedule, PATH will offer direct Hoboken-World Trade Center weekend service, direct Journal Square-33rd Street service and Hoboken-33rd Street weekend service.

Officials said the changes are expected to streamline rides and reduce travel times for thousands of weekend riders.

"This will improve the quality of life for countless New Jersey residents," Rep. Rob Menendez, (D) 8th district said. "It will make sure they get home on time to see their kids, pick them up from school, make sure they get to that appointment on time, make sure they have greater access to the PATH, which services the communities every single day."

Advocates said the expanded weekend service will make a meaningful difference for people who rely on public transit outside of the traditional weekday schedule.

“Direct weekend service will dramatically improve the quality of life for those who depend on it — healthcare workers, service workers and performance artists for whom the weekend is just another day ending in Y,” said Jack McKee, of Hudson County Complete Streets.

Meanwhile, some riders told News 12 the added convenience will make it easier to travel into the city for social activities.

“There’s people that live on this side, and they want to go into the city on the weekends to go out to dinner, go out to shows,” said PATH rider Tom Conigliaro.

The Port Authority also announced it will double train service on Fridays through 2 a.m., further expanding late-night options for commuters and travelers.

Officials in Hudson County said the improved service could also help draw more visitors to New Jersey, as the region continues to grow.

“We are growing immensely, and if everyone is coming with a car, it’s not going to work. It’s going to get too congested,” said Jersey City Mayor James Solomon. “PATH’s expansion, the better service, is going to lead to more growth, more development, more people in Jersey City.”

Some riders said the announcement is already influencing their travel plans.

“I might have to come out to Jersey a little more,” said PATH rider Wally Green.

The upgraded service options are set to take effect Sunday.