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Governor Kathy Hochul is set to propose a significant investment in Hudson Valley rail services during her upcoming State of the State address. The plan aims to enhance the speed, reliability, and safety of Metro-North Railroad and Amtrak services, potentially cutting travel times by up to 15 minutes each way on certain routes. Improvements will focus on the rail infrastructure between New York City and Poughkeepsie, including adding a second track at Spuyten Duyvil, interlocking and signaling work at Croton Harmon, and expanding capacity at the Poughkeepsie Yard.
The proposal also includes a "super-express" Metro-North service that would reduce travel time between New York City and Poughkeepsie to under 90 minutes. In addition, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will redesign signaling near Yonkers and invest in climate resilience for the Hudson Line's most vulnerable segments.
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of fast, high-quality rail service for Hudson Valley commuters. She stated, "These much-needed infrastructure improvements will allow us to modernize our rail system, increase connectivity, reduce travel time and strengthen economic connections across the region."
The MTA will also explore additional rail improvements, such as adding a third track to the Metro-North Harlem Line and connecting Hudson Line service to Penn Station. The proposal includes a regional rail working group with New Jersey, Connecticut, and other partners to enhance coordination on ticketing, schedules, and customer interfaces.
The announcement coincides with the implementation of congestion pricing in Manhattan, increasing costs for Hudson Valley commuters who drive into the city. Governor Hochul's rail investment plan aims to provide better public transit options for these commuters.
The State of the State address is scheduled for January 13, where further details about the investment and its funding will be revealed.