Mercer Times

A new report by the Regional Plan Association (RPA) indicates that the Hudson Tunnel Project (HTP) is expected to generate $19.6 billion in economic activity and create around 95,000 jobs during its construction phase. This figure represents an increase of 20,000 jobs over previous estimates.

The findings are based on research conducted for the Gateway Development Commission (GDC), which revealed that the three early works components of the HTP currently underway—representing approximately $1 billion in awarded contracts—will result in 7,500 jobs and produce $625 million in labor income. The broader impact was calculated by extrapolating these results across the project's total construction budget of $16 billion.

Kris Kolluri, CEO of GDC, stated: “The $1 billion in construction contracts we’ve awarded so far are already creating thousands of jobs and pumping millions of dollars into the economy, and that’s only the beginning.” He emphasized that the overall impact would be greater than initially anticipated, describing it as a significant advantage for both the region and nation.

Tom Wright, President and CEO of RPA, highlighted: “The Hudson Tunnel Project is the most pressing infrastructure project of our time, and it will bring enormous benefits to our region and nation.” He pointed out that RPA's research underscores strong regional economic ties requiring a modern transportation system to sustain them. Wright believes this project will foster long-term growth by enhancing job connectivity within the area.

Construction activities are ongoing on both sides of the Hudson River at sites such as New Jersey's Tonnelle Avenue Bridge and Utility Relocation Project, as well as New York's Hudson Yards Concrete Casing Section 3 (HYCC-3) Project. With upcoming work on the Hudson River Ground Stabilization (HRGS) Project set to begin in July, more than $1 billion worth of construction will soon be underway.

Additionally, GDC has submitted all necessary documents to secure a Full-Funding Grant Agreement with the Federal Transit Administration for $6.88 billion from Capital Investment Grants Program funding. This step aims to facilitate acquiring all funds needed for full project delivery.