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Re:Re: (erielack) NY Harbor



This discussion has been going on for almost 100 years, since before WWI.  The Port of New York Authority (miscalled the "Port of Authority" by millions for decades) was formed to explore the feasibility of a rail freoght tunnel between New Jersey, where most railroads ended, and New York City, where most customers and ships were located.  To get an idea of costs and benefits, they first built a vehicular tunnel -- the Holland Tunnel -- which became an immediate cash cow.  They then built the Lincoln Tunnel, then doubled them both, then the George Washington Bridge.  The money was (and is) coming in faster than they could spend it.

The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey now owns, operates and benefits from the two tunnels and the bridge, which are chock-a-block with freight traffic.  Why should they have any interest in a rail freight tunnel?

Randy Brown
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Paul,

The bill includes $100 million for planning a freight rail tunnel.  Actual cost of building the tunnel was estimated to be $4-5 billion (don't quote me on that figure).  However, from the account I saw, the Port Authority (of NY/NJ) was caught off guard by the line item and is reportedly opposed to the project.

Chuck



                                                                                                                                          
                      "Paul Brezicki"                                                                             <doctorpb_@_bellsouth                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       
I wonder if EL (or LV or PC) ever considered converting some carferries to truck ferries? The increasingly common 13'6" high trailer  could bypass the circuitous routing via the GW and been driven onto the floats after grounding at Croxton, for a quick ride to Mhtn. The 28th St yard could have been used as a staging area. The infrastructure was there, and the three roads could perhaps have made it a joint effort.

On a related matter, the transportation bill to be signed into law today apparently includes funding for the long-discussed freight tunnel under NY harbor. Does anyone know details on this, such as does it include rail?

Paul B


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