Gov. Mikie Sherrill announced late Tuesday that she is in favor of a smaller bridge project connecting Newark and Hudson County – essentially cutting the project in half in size and cost.
The Murphy administration wanted a twin-span, eight-lane bridge to replace the Newark Bay Bridge, a four-lane, Turnpike extension bridge that federal officials say will likely require replacement by 2031. The project was fought by local leaders for a number of reasons, including cost, pollution and overall impact to nearby residents.
Sherrill, without making a statement on the previous proposal but acknowledging the complaints against it, said she is recommending that the NJ Turnpike Authority advance a four-lane, $6.7 billion bridge.
Sherrill said the project will be a historic investment in safety, resilience, and job creation will improve long-term reliability for drivers and freight.
“This project will support approximately 19,000 jobs, including thousands of union construction jobs,” she said. “It will generate economic activity across the region and create opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses in our state. These are good-paying jobs that support families and local communities. The project will also allow traffic to shift off the aging existing bridge by 2031, consistent with NTSB concerns.”
Sherrill said the $6.7 billion investment will be the largest single project the Turnpike Authority has ever advanced.
“It involves the immediate construction of a four-lane bridge with shoulders and improvements,” she said.
Sherrill said she also is recommending that the Turnpike Board continue to advance design and permitting work on the roadway structures leading to the Holland Tunnel for safety improvements only, without expanding capacity.
The governor also noted feedback, consistent with her continual pledge to seek input from key players.
“I am grateful for the input I have received from mayors, community leaders and organized labor,” she said. “I look forward to this historic, job-creating project that will grow our economy and improve commutes for the people of New Jersey.”
