The epoch times

$100M allocated for new double tracks on Port Jervis Line.

MTA Commits $100 ⁢Million to Expand Port Jervis ⁣Line

The⁢ Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has just‌ announced a major investment in the Port Jervis Line. At ⁤an Aug. 23 press ⁣conference, local ​elected leaders revealed that the MTA will be allocating‌ $100 million to build two new one-mile-long tracks on the metro line.

These new tracks, known as passing⁢ sidings, will ‍not only allow‌ for two-way train traffic but also enhance train services for residents in‌ Orange ⁢and Rockland counties. The⁤ construction of these tracks is planned for the Middletown and Tuxedo areas over the next few ​years.

Related Stories

New York state Sen. James Skoufis, along ⁣with state Assemblymen Kenneth⁢ Zebrowski and Chris Eachus, ⁣made the exciting announcement in front⁣ of the Harriman ​Train Station.

Sen. Skoufis emphasized that this investment from the MTA is the result of years of advocacy and‌ signifies a renewed commitment to the‌ communities west of the Hudson River. These communities have long supported the⁤ MTA ⁢through fees⁤ and ⁢taxes but‍ have received ‌minimal services in return.

“In the ⁤last couple of years in particular, the MTA has really taken a​ new posture and‌ renewed a partnership with a number of‍ us in the state legislature,” said Sen. Skoufis.

In addition to the passing sidings, ⁢the Orange and Rockland⁢ communities​ have also been exempted from an MTA fare hike and a payroll tax raise.

Assemblyman Eachus highlighted that a more⁤ active Port Jervis Line will drive the‌ development‌ of the entire region,⁤ including the Stewart​ International Airport. Village ​of Woodbury​ Mayor Andrew Giacomazza and Town of Woodbury Supervisor Thomas Burke also expressed their support for the positive progress made by the MTA.

This investment in new tracks comes at​ a crucial time for the MTA, as it has recently ⁢received significant state ⁤assistance to‍ address its financial challenges. Without intervention, these challenges were projected to reach $600 million by the​ end of 2023.

The⁤ state’s rescue measures include $300 million‍ in one-time⁤ aid, up to $413 million in casino tax revenues, and higher payroll mobility taxes for large New York City businesses.

The state budget (pdf) also allocates $6.6 billion⁣ for MTA capital projects, such as improving⁢ signal technology, enhancing accessibility, and upgrading bus services.

With this support, the MTA is expected to operate on a balanced budget through 2027.

One-Seat Ride

During the press conference, ⁤local leaders also ⁣provided updates on the ongoing ‌effort to ‍establish a one-train ride from the Port Jervis Line to New York City. Currently, passengers on the line ​have to change⁢ trains in New ⁢Jersey⁣ to ⁢reach ⁤Penn Station in⁣ Manhattan.

Assemblyman Zebrowski outlined the three necessary steps to make the one-train ride a reality:⁤ a new tunnel under the Hudson River, a rail loop to access the ​tunnel, and new receiving platforms at Penn Station.

He emphasized‍ the importance of moving‍ forward with these plans to improve transportation for commuters.



" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Related Articles

Sponsored Content
Back to top button
Available for Amazon Prime
Close

Adblock Detected

Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker