The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has been awarded a $25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. This funding will be used to modernize the 12th Street corridor on the New Jersey side of the Holland Tunnel, aiming to enhance safety for pedestrians and bicyclists while improving vehicle travel times.
The project seeks to balance the needs of drivers using the Holland Tunnel with those of local communities in Jersey City, which is experiencing significant growth. The redesigned corridor is expected to reduce collisions by 60 percent and improve air quality, contributing to economic vitality in the area.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the project's importance, stating, "Ensuring that our residents are able to get from place to place safely and efficiently is critical to the success of our entire region." Port Authority Chairman Kevin O'Toole highlighted that a reduction in collisions would lead to "more lives saved, less time wasted, and a more inviting corridor."
Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton noted that this initiative reflects their focus on infrastructure that prioritizes efficiency and sustainability. He acknowledged support from congressional delegations and U.S. DOT in realizing this vision.
U.S. Representative Rob Menendez expressed pride in securing funding for a project that benefits families, commuters, and businesses while prioritizing sustainability.
The redesign includes reducing roadway width between Jersey Avenue and Marin Boulevard from six lanes to four lanes as implemented in 2020. Shorter crosswalks will enhance pedestrian safety by allowing shorter red-light cycles at intersections. The modifications aim for an 82 percent reduction in pedestrian collisions and a 78 percent reduction involving bicyclists.
Traffic improvements are projected to save drivers 6,300 hours annually while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 70 metric tons per year due to decreased idling time.
Additional features include wider sidewalks with ADA compliance, a new two-way bike lane connecting to Jersey City's waterfront, energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures, stormwater management solutions like porous pavement and rain gardens, new landscaping aimed at improving air quality, and technology upgrades for detecting oversized vehicles near tunnel portals.
Community input will be sought during design development through outreach efforts involving local organizations. Construction is anticipated to conclude by 2031 after finalizing designs by 2028.
The Port Authority remains committed to partnering with minority-owned businesses throughout this project under its established participation goals for MBE/WBE/SDVOB firms across agency contracts.
