Title: Post Investigation Finds Alternative Solution to Controversial Penn Station Expansion
Byline: Nolan Hicks
Published: Dec. 25, 2023, 3:43 p.m. ET
A recent investigation by The New York Post has revealed a potential alternative to the highly controversial $17 billion expansion of Penn Station. The investigation uncovered plans from the MTA and NJ Transit that, if combined, could double the capacity of Penn Station, saving taxpayers billions of dollars and avoiding the destruction of three midtown blocks.
The investigative report analyzed 1,000 pages of engineering reports and diagrams, many of which had never been made public. The findings suggest that by combining the MTA and NJ Transit plans, the sought-after 48-train capacity at Penn Station could be achieved, saving up to $10 billion in costs.
Transit experts, officials, and activists interviewed for the investigation shared their support for the alternative proposals, emphasizing the need for cooperation between the MTA, NJ Transit, and Amtrak. The plans, if implemented, would not only increase the station’s capacity but also improve safety, reliability, and service for commuters.
The current “Penn Expansion” project, which involves significant demolition and reconstruction, has faced growing opposition due to its size and cost, which has ballooned from an initial estimate of $8.5-$9.5 billion to a potential $16.7 billion.
Despite the potential benefits of the alternative plans, the investigation highlighted the existing challenges and frictions between the involved transit agencies, namely the MTA, NJ Transit, and Amtrak. While the combined proposals present a cost-effective and viable solution, they require a level of cooperation and coordination that has been lacking among the agencies.
In response to The Post’s findings, Amtrak, the MTA, and NJ Transit declined to comment on the specifics of the investigation. However, the report has sparked discussions and debate about the future of Penn Station and the best approach to address its capacity and infrastructure needs.
The investigation has shed light on a potential pathway to alleviate the strain on Penn Station without the need for an expensive and disruptive expansion project. As the debate continues, the MTA, NJ Transit, and Amtrak will need to consider the implications of the alternative proposals and the possibility of collaborative efforts to enhance the efficiency and capacity of one of the nation’s busiest transit hubs.