Good afternoon, GDC Commissioners.

My name is Josh Berman, and I’m the Campaigns Manager with Regional Plan Association, the nation’s oldest metropolitan planning organization and the convener of the Build Gateway Now coalition.

First, I’d like to congratulate Tom Prendergast on his first day as CEO. His deep expertise and proven leadership in delivering major infrastructure projects make him the right person to advance the Hudson Tunnel Project and work to implement the full Gateway program.

New Yorkers and New Jerseyans alike can see the progress happening in real time. From the excavation of the Manhattan cut-and-cover tunnel to the essential early work in New Jersey, we are witnessing a once-in-a-generation investment in our region’s economy and transit future. Thousands of good-paying jobs have already been created, and billions of dollars are flowing into communities across both states.

RPA’s Early Work, Early Benefits report found that in-progress work has created 7,500 jobs and $1.6 billion in economic activity. The full project is expected to produce 95,000 new jobs and $19.6 billion in economic impact. This is only the beginning of the potential economic and job benefits of the full Gateway Program.

Still, the work ahead is just as critical. The Palisades Tunnel remains on track to break ground in 2026, and today’s contract award for the Manhattan Tunnel marks another major step forward. This is more than just another milestone—it’s a moment that ensures the full construction phase of the project is underway and progressing with the urgency it demands.

RPA is proud to support the GDC Board’s commitment to delivering this transformative project. Gateway is not just about new infrastructure; it’s about economic opportunity, regional resilience, and ensuring a reliable future for the millions who depend on this corridor every day.

Thank you