Discussion of the Gateway Program, an infrastructure plan to improve rail lines along the Northeast Corridor (NEC) that supports 800,000 passengers daily, has been circulating for years. However, on Tuesday, July 5, Governor Kathy Hochul and Governor Phil Murphy confirmed that both New York and New Jersey are moving forward with the plan.
Both Governors signed the Phase One Memorandum of Understanding that indicates sources, uses, and timing of funding for the project. Phase One includes details regarding the Portal North Bridge and the Hudson Tunnel Project, which will be funded by both local and federal sources. PANYNJ’s will be putting up $2.7 billion for Phase One.
Damage to the North River Tunnel due to old age and exposure to Hurricane Sandy will be rehabilitated in addition to the construction of a new tunnel for passengers to use while the existing one is revitalized.
Set to drive significant economic growth for both New York and New Jersey, millions of riders are expected to benefit from the program.
“The Gateway Hudson Tunnel Project is vital to the Northeast corridor, and today’s announcement is a critical step forward in turning this vision into reality,” Governor Hochul said. “By signing the Phase One Memorandum of Understanding, we are establishing the framework to get this project over the finish line and are making good on our promise to modernize the state’s transportation infrastructure and create a mass transit system worthy of New Yorkers.”
Governor Murphy made similar remarks, defining the signing as a pivotal milestone for the country’s most significant transportation project.
“The signing of this MOU marks an important step forward in making the nation’s most vital and impactful rail project a reality. We are delighted to see real progress being made toward a better, more reliable travel experience for rail customers throughout our region,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton.
Learn more about the plan here.