NJ Chamber president hails Gateway funding

New Jersey Chamber of Commerce President Tom Bracken hailed some anticipated federal funding for the Gateway Program that’s expected to make its way out of Congress soon.New Jersey Chamber of Commerce President Tom Bracken hailed some anticipated federal funding for the Gateway Program that’s expected to make its way out of Congress soon.

Some $54 million is expected to be included in a pending omnibus bill to help fund the proposed mega-project, which would tunnel under the Hudson River to provide another rail line connecting New Jersey and New York. The project, which would also repair an aging rail tunnel, carries an estimated price tag of more than $20 billion.

“It is very good news for New Jersey that the federal omnibus spending bill includes funding that can be utilized for the portal bridge and the Gateway tunnel,” Bracken said. “Although the funds do not fully cover the costs of these projects, it is a good start with future funding seemingly available.”

Bracken said Gateway is important for New Jersey’s future economic vitality.

“Our state is heavily dependent upon its infrastructure and its ability to efficiently move people and products,” he said.