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3d ago

Amtrak Set to Begin Major East River Tunnel Repairs Despite Ongoing Opposition

With closures starting May 23, Amtrak defends long-term shutdowns as necessary while the MTA and local leaders push for less disruptive alternatives.

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Parts of the East River tunnel were literally falling apart during a recent tour.
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Overview

  • Amtrak plans to close two East River rail tunnel tubes consecutively for 13 months each, starting May 23, as part of a $1.6 billion repair project addressing Superstorm Sandy damage.
  • The tunnels, built in 1910, suffer from corrosion, structural damage, and exposed high-voltage cables caused by saltwater flooding during the 2012 storm.
  • Amtrak officials argue that full shutdowns are the most effective way to ensure thorough and lasting repairs, citing the tunnels' deteriorating reliability and safety risks.
  • The MTA, LIRR President Rob Free, and elected officials, including Gov. Kathy Hochul, oppose the closures, advocating for night-and-weekend work to minimize commuter disruptions.
  • The closures are expected to reduce Penn Station's capacity by 25%, risking significant delays for LIRR's 125,000 daily riders, with mitigation measures still under discussion.