#USA #Newark #Hudson Tunnel Project #Traylor Bros #Walsh Construction

Major Hudson Tunnel Project Awarded

On May 4, 2026, the Gateway Development Commission confidently awarded a significant contract for the Hudson Tunnel Project to the Traylor/Walsh/Skanska joint venture. This $1.29 billion package marks a crucial milestone in the development of the Hudson River Tunnel Section, which is intended to enhance the reliability of passenger rail services in the Northeast Corridor.

Project Overview

The Hudson Tunnel Project is designed to construct a new rail tunnel beneath the Hudson River, facilitating improved transportation efficiency and safety for millions of commuters traveling between New Jersey and New York City. This specific package, referred to as Package 1C, will execute extensive tunneling work that will result in two new parallel, single-track tunnels. Each tunnel will measure roughly 7,250 feet, extending from the Hudson County Access Shaft in Weehawken to the 12th Avenue Access Shaft in Manhattan.

Key Construction Activities

The extensive scope of work outlined in the contract includes:

• - Boring of two parallel tunnels beneath the river
• - Installation of tunnel liner and floor
• - Construction of nine cross passages connecting both tunnels
• - Ground stabilization efforts in proximity to the Hudson Bergen Light Rail
• - Underpinning work on the Willow Avenue Bridge

These activities are critical for establishing new infrastructure that directly supports the rehabilitation of the existing North River Tunnel, which has served since 1910 and suffered severe damage during Superstorm Sandy. The introduction of these new tunnel tubes is anticipated to significantly bolster the transportation capacity essential for the Northeast Corridor.

Innovative Technology and Techniques

The construction will utilize custom-built mixed-use tunnel boring machines (TBMs), specifically designed to handle the challenging mixed ground conditions beneath the Hudson River, which includes weathered rock and soft soil. This ensures the effective and efficient boring of the tunnels, as these machines will be capable of addressing the diverse geological characteristics of the area.

Collaborative Efforts for Success

The Traylor/Walsh/Skanska joint venture combines the strengths of three reputable firms with vast experience in heavy civil and underground construction. Chris Hebert, Vice President of Traylor Bros., Inc., expressed pride in being selected for such a nationally significant project, emphasizing the dedication that his team brings to improving the region’s rail infrastructure and overall mobility.

Jeff Twidwell, Senior Vice President at Walsh Construction, reiterated confidence in their joint capabilities, highlighting the need for collaborative leadership and proven technical expertise to navigate the complexities of constructing new rail tunnels.

Keith Chouinard, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Skanska USA Civil, added that this selection speaks volumes about the confidence stakeholders have in their ability to undertake such a challenging infrastructure project. Combining substantial tunneling expertise with unwavering commitment to safety and performance, the team is eager to begin this prominent project.

A Step Towards Modernization

The Gateway Development Commission's CEO, Tom Prendergast, stated that the awarding of the Package 1C contract represents a significant advancement towards realizing a modern, reliable passenger rail system that meets the needs of daily commuters to and from New York City. The joint venture’s combined expertise and resources are crucial to delivering on this critical infrastructure project, which is paramount for the future of the region's rail network.

Work on this ambitious infrastructure project is expected to commence shortly after the issuance of a notice to proceed, signaling the start of a new chapter in the evolution of New Jersey and New York's transportation landscape.

About the Partners

Traylor Bros., Inc.: Founded in 1946 and based in Evansville, Indiana, Traylor Bros. is renowned for its expertise in tunneling and has successfully completed numerous complex underground projects.

Walsh Construction: Part of The Walsh Group, a respected company in transportation and building services, Walsh emphasizes safety, quality, and ethical standards across its many regional offices.

Skanska: An international project development and construction company, Skanska operates as one of the largest firms in the industry, emphasizing sustainability and innovation in infrastructure projects worldwide.