PANYNJ approves eight-year plan to overhaul Sandy-damaged tunnels

Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
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In this photo from 2013, new rail clips have been installed in Tunnel F following restoration and resiliency work.
PANYNJ

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's (PANYNJ) Board of Commissioners approved a major overhaul of two PATH tunnels damaged by Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

“PATH is a critical lifeline between New Jersey and New York, and the investment we approved today is vital to keep it operating safely and efficiently,” said Port Authority Chairman John Degnan. “This project, coupled with one we are doing to install a new computerized signal system, will allow us to accommodate projected growth in mass transit for many years to come.”

The tunnels between New York and New Jersey link the Exchange Place and World Trade Center stations and the project will repair and upgrade critical rail, electrical and signal systems.

The $400-million project will replace PATH track, third rail, electrical, signal and communications infrastructure along portions of Tunnels E and F under the Hudson River. Repairs to Tunnels E and F currently are slated to begin in the third quarter of 2017 and be completed in 2026. There will be single-track operation during weekend work to allow for continuous train service and to minimize passenger inconvenience and disruption.

Currently, the work is scheduled on 35 weekends per year. However, PANYNJ is exploring options to shorten the estimated eight-year construction schedule.

“We are laser-focused on making sure the transportation assets we own are properly maintained to ensure their ability to serve the tens of millions of travelers who rely on them every year,” said Port Authority Vice Chairman Steven Cohen. “Hurricane Sandy took a major toll on PATH and on other critical transportation facilities, and this project will aim to not only fix the damage, but mitigate future potential problems from severe flooding.”

During Superstorm Sandy, Tunnels E and F were flooded with millions of gallons of salt water. The tunnels were drained and cleaned to get service back up and running again. PANYNJ completed post-Sandy restoration and resiliency work in 2013-2014 to remove the residual salt left in the tunnel.

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