And the tab is substantial: $271 million. NJ Gov. Christie, who killed the trans-Hudson, $9 billion rail tunnel for financial reasons, is now left owing funds for work completed that his state would not be liable for had he not canceled the project.
Rail tunnel design and engineering work totaling almost $600 million was completed since the prior governor, John Corzine, authorized the project, and was paid by the Federal Transit Authority, the Port Authority of NY and NJ, and the state of NJ. The FTA is demanding repayment of their share since Christie canceled the tunnel project on Oct. 26 citing concerns about being liable for cost overruns.
"The letter (from the Federal Transit Administration) to NJ Transit Executive Director James Weinstein demands "payment in full, 30 days from the date of this letter.'' It threatens the state with interest penalties for being overdue and with turning the account over to a collection agency, the U.S. Department of Justice. The FTA also warned that if the debt becomes delinquent, it may hurt the state's credit rating.
One possibility is to have the congressional delegation negotiate to reduce the debt or have it forgiven. Lawmakers had forgiven a $140 million debt to construct high-occupancy vehicle lanes on Interstates 287 and 80, which were converted to to regular use in 1998."
Thanks to E&E Publishing - Greenwire
FULL STORY: NJ must pay $271M for killing rail tunnel
ARC Tunnel Scrapped - Absolutely, States NJ Governor
Time will tell whether this was a shrewd political move, saving the state billions of dollars, or a monumental failure of judgment. NJ must now repay the federal government $270 million; he forfeits $6 billion in transit, but prevents overrun costs.
FTA Waives Local Funding Match for Complete Streets Projects
Local and state agencies can apply for federal Complete Streets funding without matching funds until 2026.
Boston to Add 194 Hybrid Buses
The MBTA will use local and FTA monies to bring in the new vehicles which will replace older diesel and hybrid buses aging out of their usable lifespan.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Santa Clarita
Ascent Environmental
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service