WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08) led all New Jersey Democratic Members of the House and Senate in responding to the Trump Administration's politically motivated decision to withhold funding for the Hudson Tunnel Project, the largest bipartisan investment in transportation infrastructure in United States history.
In a letter to Trump Administration officials, the delegation highlighted the economic impacts of the project, creating 95,000 jobs and generating $19.6 billion in economic activity from construction alone, as well as the project’s success in meeting major milestones on time and on budget.
“When complete, this project will provide reliable, on-time cross-Hudson transportation service to 200,000 passengers every day,” the letter said. “The construction of this project is already underway, with several pieces near completion, and major milestones are consistently being met on schedule and on budget. Between the progress already made and the economic benefits of this project, it is essential that construction on this project continue without interruption.”
With respect to the timing of the Administration’s decision to withhold the funds, the letter continued: “It is abundantly clear that the withholding of these funds is politically motivated. These political games are unacceptable, and the American people deserve better. We urge you to immediately cease your obstruction of this vital project and instead focus on providing real relief for the American people. Given the urgency of this situation and the thousands of hardworking Americans who are driving this project forward every single day, we expect a prompt response and quick corrective action.”
For full text of the letter, click here.
Since coming to Congress, and as a former member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Menendez helped champion funding for the Gateway Project and programs that support it, including full funding of the Capital Investment Grants program and advanced appropriations. Many of the projects within Gateway are within New Jersey’s Eighth Congressional District, including the Hudson Tunnel Project, Portal North Bridge, and the Tonnelle Avenue Bridge. Menendez now serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
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