The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has approved an agreement that will allow the construction of a major ship-to-rail facility to proceed.
The project will complete a US$600m initiative by Port Authority which aims to provide all of its major marine terminals with direct access to rail.
“Given the highly competitive nature of the port business, it is critical that we invest in projects that will allow for the efficient, more environmentally sustainable movement of freight and goods,” said John Degnan, Port Authority chairman.
He added: “The project will allow us to maintain our competitive edge and cement our position as the East Coast's premier destination for international cargo.”
GCT Bayonne will build, operate and maintain the ship-to-rail facility which will provide a more environmentally friendly movement of cargo.
The ExpressRail, which is expected to open in 2018, will combine with other environmental programmes already instituted in the port. These have resulted in a 33% reduction across all port related emissions.
“As the most populated region in the country, it's essential that we provide the necessary infrastructure to move freight in the most efficient and environmentally friendly way,” said Scott Rechler, Port Authority vice chairman.
He concluded: “This critical investment will help take tens of thousands of truck trips off our roads and reduce congestion and harmful emissions throughout our region, while delivering goods to the millions of people throughout the States of New York and New Jersey and beyond."
