NJ Awaits $205M Gateway Tunnel Funding or Considers Court Return
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill announced that the federal government has allocated the first $30 million towards the $205 million Gateway Tunnel funding. This announcement was made via her social media platform. Sherrill emphasized that this is merely the beginning, vowing to continue her efforts until all owed funds are secured for the project.
Gateway Tunnel Funding Update
On February 6, 2023, New Jersey and New York returned to U.S. District Court to discuss the possibility of reviving the funds. Attorneys representing both states sought a status update on the restoration of the financial support, as reported by Michael Symons from the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) indicated that payments were underway but yet to reach the Gateway Development Commission.
Officials’ Statements
Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport praised the progress, asserting that their actions forced the Department of Transportation to release funds that had previously been frozen. “When we fight, we win. We will always stand up for the Gateway project,” she stated.
At a press conference held at the Secaucus Junction NJ Transit station, Sherrill noted, “Congress approved this money, and it belongs to the American people.” She urged the swift disbursement of the remaining funds and expressed that construction remains halted until the total $205 million is received.
The Importance of the Project
The Gateway Tunnel project, estimated at $16 billion, aims to construct two new rail tunnels under the Hudson River and rehabilitate existing ones. The Gateway Development Commission expects to efficiently allocate these funds and resume construction without delay.
Workers Await Funding Release
- Tracy Porter, a laborer from Local 472, highlighted the urgency, stating the workers have been idle since February 6.
- Porter expressed hope for a resolution, emphasizing the need for focus on American jobs.
- Sherrill raised concerns that delaying the project could lead to a waste of $20 million per month.
Legal Challenges and Next Steps
A federal appeals court has upheld a ruling requiring the administration to release the frozen funds, although broader funding issues remain unresolved. The Appeals Court will hear further arguments regarding this matter on February 23, 2023.
U.S. Representative Rob Menendez has challenged Trump to engage with workers impacted by the funding freeze. He criticized the prioritization of political interests over essential public infrastructure.
As the situation unfolds, both New Jersey and New York remain optimistic about the outcome of the pending legal matters. These states continue to advocate fiercely for the restoration of all Gateway Tunnel funding, deemed crucial for the region’s infrastructure and public transportation.
