Amtrak Awards Construction Contract for East River Tunnel Rehabilitation
NEW YORK – Amtrak will begin major rehabilitation of the East River Tunnel in New York City later this year following the award of a construction contract to a Skanska E-J ERT Joint Venture.
According to Amtrak, the tunnel is comprised of four tubes – two of which require significant repairs and comprehensive reconstruction following damage caused by floodwaters that entered the tunnel during Superstorm Sandy.
The East River Tunnel Rehabilitation Project will demolish all existing tunnel systems down to the liner, before completely restoring both tubes that were damaged in 2012. During this project, one tube will be closed at a time, minimizing service impacts while maximizing track access for construction, and renewing the tunnel infrastructure to serve customers for another 100 years.
“Today’s announcement brings us one step closer to renewing the East River Tunnel for a new generation. We thank Senator Schumer and the Biden-Harris Administration for their support that has made the renewal of this critical asset possible, and we appreciate the collaboration with our partners at MTA and NJ TRANSIT on this consequential project. Together, we’re committed to delivering this important infrastructure investment for New Yorkers, New Jerseyans, and everyone else who relies on the NEC – America’s busiest rail corridor.”