Washington, DC – U.S. Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ) issued the following statement applauding the steps forward on constructing new Hudson River rail tunnels represented by Govs. Chris Christie, R-N.J., and Andrew Cuomo’s, D-N.Y., letter to President Obama today:
“Today’s proposed funding framework is a major development and a sign of tangible progress in our effort to build new Hudson River rail tunnels,” said Sen. Booker. “It’s encouraging that what began as a conversation in Newark a month ago is beginning to bear fruit. People from across the political spectrum on both sides of the Hudson recognize the urgent need to rebuild and expand this critical transportation artery for New Jersey commuters and hundreds of thousands of others who rely on rail transit along the Northeast Corridor every day. If America wants to be globally competitive in the 21st century, we must invest in a strong passenger rail system. My work with our region’s governors, Congressional delegation, and the Administration to build new Hudson rail tunnels won’t stop until the project is complete.”
“I’m pleased that both Governor Christie and Governor Cuomo are fully committed to building new Hudson River Tunnels, which are essential to both the region and the nation’s economy. It’s going to take cooperation, creative thinking, and sacrifice from all parties to build a project of this magnitude,” said Sen. Menendez. “This initial proposal represents a step in the right direction, and I’m confident that the Obama Administration and Secretary Foxx will continue their partnership and leadership to help advance this effort. I remain committed to advancing the Gateway project and securing the necessary federal commitments, and look forward to working with all stakeholders to make this project a reality as soon as possible. New Jerseyans deserve no less.”
Last month, Sen. Booker hosted a meeting in his Newark office on the Hudson River Tunnel project with Gov. Chris Christie, R-N.J., U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx, U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J, and other officials.