The NEC has other tunnels and probably about a dozen drawbridges (see Frailey's story about one of those balky drawbridge in Sept Trains). The Hudson tunnels have the added NJT traffic, but they have had the PATH tubes and even fast ferries as back-up to get across the Hudson. The article citing national security seems repetitive of other articles, and even repeats the notion that freight is involved. There are good reasons to build the Project, without grasping this far.
National Security was a reason Amtrak was able to dismantle the passenger train system and Conrail and others dismantle the rail system overall...the cries from the right were that should the Russians have invaded they would have a way to move troops and munitions around with ease. Also it was feared that Beach Grove Shops would become either a camp for invading troops or a factory where Russian tanks would be built. Now, the building of tunnels under the Hudson should take precedence for National Security reasons? While I disagree with the premise I will agree that 1) something has to be done immediately if not sooner...and the sooner the better; 2) look at how long it took the PRR to get their tunnels and all the games they had to play, 3) look how long it has taken since the PRR tunnels were built to get another set dug? So, if security is a reason that will speed things up, let's go!
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Using national security concerns to put a priority on the building of these tunnels appears to be a real stretch. The author of the opinion wants these tunnels built quickly and appears willing to use any means possible to cause this to happen.
National security concerns expressed for building of Gateway tunnels. Points are IMHO are important points.
http://www.app.com/article/20120728/NJOPINION03/307280006/BEACHEM-Rail-tunnel-crucial-national-security
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