Photo Credit: historicbridges.org A major transportation infrastructure project, which has received much criticism in recent weeks from numerous sources, including Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop and the Hoboken City Council, has received a nod of support from one of Hudson County’s Congressional representatives.
Today, Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ) released the following statement regarding the New Jersey Turnpike Authority’s plan to repair and expand an eight-mile section of highway in northern New Jersey through Bayonne and Jersey City:
“I stand with Governor Murphy in supporting the New Jersey Turnpike widening project which will create good quality jobs for many years to come. Our region’s infrastructure is in need of repair and replacement and I am pleased that this will address a section of road that so many use every day. One key part of this initiative is replacing the Newark Bay Bridge which was completed nearly 70 years ago and poses a safety risk to commuters. I look forward to the continued advancement of this project as we build our economy and update our aging infrastructure.”
The $4.7 billion plan would address degraded infrastructure between NJ Turnpike exits 14 and 14C and replace several bridges including the Newark Bay Bridge which was completed in 1956. According to the NJTA, environmental studies began in early 2021 and final design is expected to begin in 2023 with construction starting in 2026.
Several members of the Jersey City Council, including Councilman Solomon, Councilman Saleh and Councilwoman Prinz-Arey have voiced opposition to the project.
According to the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, the next phase of the project would widen Exit 14A to Columbus Drive in Jersey City to three lanes. The final phase would see the replacement of elevated structures from Columbus Drive to Jersey Avenue.
