By: Kyle Longworth

The ambitious Gateway project, aimed at constructing two much-needed train tunnels under the Hudson River, has encountered significant delays, as revealed by a federal audit. Despite recently breaking ground, the project is already running two years behind schedule, according to the audit conducted for the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Transit Administration.

he NY Post broke this story originally, in an exclusive report.

The Gateway Development Commission, responsible for the project, publicly announced its goal to complete the tunnel construction and rehabilitation of the existing trans-Hudson tubes damaged by Superstorm Sandy by 2038. However, the federal audit indicates that the timeline may extend until 2040.

The audit identified key challenges faced by the agency, including the imperative need to increase staffing, award substantial contracts, and undertake extensive preparation work due to the complex geography of the Hudson River. Failure to address these issues promptly could lead to further delays and increased costs, warned the review.

Gateway officials have responded to the audit’s findings by asserting that they have already expanded their staff from eight to 44 and taken additional measures to address the identified issues. The project, which commenced earlier this year, secured $11 billion in federal funding, with the remainder of the cost to be shared between Albany and Trenton.

The Gateway Project’s history is marked by a series of challenges and setbacks. Previous attempts, such as the controversially canceled ARC project in 2010 by then-New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, and the subsequent Gateway project, faced delays in obtaining funding. The Trump administration’s alleged interference, amidst a feud with the Democratic states of New York and New Jersey, further impeded progress.

The significance of the Gateway project lies in its potential to alleviate overcrowded trains and address frequent delays caused by breakdowns. The tunnels aim to provide a critical second route between New Jersey and Penn Station, a vital transportation hub. The existing tunnels suffered extensive damage during Superstorm Sandy when they were flooded by saltwater.

Beyond improving the reliability of transportation, the new tunnels could potentially double the number of trains running between New York and New Jersey. However, this expansion hinges on significant upgrades to the existing Penn Station or the implementation of controversial plans for a potentially $17 billion station expansion.

Despite the federal audit’s findings, a Gateway spokesman, Stephen Sigmund, disputed the conclusions. He stated, “We’ve been working hand in hand with the FTA on a refreshed, more advanced and accurate estimate that we anticipate finalizing in the coming weeks.” The project’s future progress will likely continue to be closely monitored, given its national importance and potential impact on East Coast transportation.

The Gateway Project in New York City is an ambitious infrastructure initiative focused on addressing critical transportation challenges in the region. The project aims to construct two new train tunnels under the Hudson River, providing a vital second route between New Jersey and Penn Station in Manhattan. These tunnels are intended to replace and rehabilitate the existing trans-Hudson tubes, which suffered severe damage during Superstorm Sandy.

The Gateway Project holds immense significance due to its potential to alleviate overcrowded trains, frequent delays, and breakdowns that disrupt the East Coast rail network. The new tunnels, once completed, would enhance the reliability and efficiency of transportation between New York and New Jersey.

The project has faced a tumultuous history, including the controversial cancellation of its predecessor, the ARC project, in 2010. Delays in obtaining funding and alleged interference by the Trump administration further complicated its progress.