We call on the governors of New York and New Jersey, federal representatives of the New York metropolitan region, leaders in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the White House to provide the critical funding and leadership for the construction of new rail tunnels under the Hudson River. 

Aging infrastructure across the nation is in urgent need of repair or replacement. One of the country’s most pressing transportation issues is the need for a new rail tunnel linking New Jersey and New York. Built more than a century ago, the existing tunnels that carry NJ Transit and Amtrak trains and more than 85,000 average weekday riders are the biggest chokepoint in the Northeast, and the source of frequent delays for commuters from Boston to Washington. For years, the tunnels have needed extended repairs that are impossible to carry out while keeping trains running. The situation deteriorated when the tunnels flooded with salt water during Hurricane Sandy, causing corrosion of the walls and wiring. Amtrak officials say the current tubes might not last 20 years without major repairs.

As U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in July, "The condition of the trans-Hudson tunnels is a major threat to the region and to our nation's transportation system." If the current Hudson River tunnels fail and are closed for repairs before new tunnels are built, scores of thousands of commuters could be left stranded. The economic consequences will be felt across the U.S.

A sustained, long-term commitment is required by state and federal leaders to ensure success for this project and the stability of the economies of the region and the nation. We call on our political leadership to make this project a priority and to ensure the funding necessary to avoid ‘railmageddon.’ The region can't wait.