Seeking to maximize the efficiency of freight transport in the greater New York/New Jersey region while minimizing environmental impacts, the Federal Highway Administration is examining long- and short-term strategies as part of its Cross Harbor Freight Movement Program. To provide improved freight mobility options for the region, the Cross Harbor project will combine land-based improvements to freight shipping routes with a new tunnel across New York Harbor. The result strives to improve the regional freight network, reduce traffic congestion, enhance modal diversity, improve air quality and provide economic benefits.
STV played a key role in this effort by leading a joint venture in the preparation of a Tier I Environmental Impact Statement, as well as categorical exclusion documents, for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ), which oversees the region’s transportation corridors. STV was then selected to perform the Tier II Study and analyze the environmental effects and potential mitigation measures for two preferred alternatives the same joint venture team helped the PANYNJ identify during Tier I.
The two alternatives are a dedicated rail freight tunnel between New York and New Jersey, and the expansion of the PANYNJ’s existing railcar float operation. The rail tunnel option calls for a freight tunnel under New York Harbor that would run about four miles between Jersey City, NJ, and Brooklyn, NY. The railcar float alternative would significantly expand the existing carfloat system currently being operated by New York New Jersey Rail, LLC.
