Federal Funding Aims to Eliminate Collisions and Reduce Delays in Westchester and Orange Counties
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer has announced $2.77 million in federal funding to improve rail crossing safety in the Hudson Valley. The funds will support the design and planning of safer rail crossings in New Castle and Port Jervis, addressing longstanding safety concerns and reducing delays on key transportation routes.
A Commitment to Safety Following Tragic Accidents
Schumer’s announcement comes in response to the devastating 2015 Valhalla train crash, which claimed six lives. Since then, Schumer has pushed for increased rail safety measures across the region. This funding marks a major step toward safer crossings for commuters, drivers, pedestrians, first responders, and railroad employees.
The funding is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Rail Crossing Elimination Grant Program, established through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, which Schumer championed in the Senate.
Schumer: Hudson Valley Rail Safety Improvements Must Be Fast-Tracked
“It’s time to get critical safety upgrades for Hudson Valley rail crossings back on track,” Schumer said. “I’m proud to deliver nearly $3 million to advance these much-needed improvements for the notorious New Castle and Port Jervis crossings. The tragic 2015 Valhalla crash underscored the urgency for these investments, and this funding is a crucial step to preventing future tragedies.”
Key Projects in Westchester and Orange Counties
- New Castle (Roaring Brook Grade Crossing): $2.6 million will fund preliminary engineering and design to eliminate the Roaring Brook Road grade crossing, which has seen over 180 accidents and 27 signal malfunctions in the past five years. Located near Horace Greeley High School, the crossing accommodates more than 100 trains daily, causing delays and creating safety hazards. Eliminating this crossing will reduce accidents, cut down emissions from idling vehicles, and improve emergency response times.
- Port Jervis Railroad Crossing: $159,600 will support plans to enhance pedestrian safety at an at-grade crossing in downtown Port Jervis. Proposed improvements include ADA-compliant ramps, active pedestrian gates, and enhanced signage to improve accessibility and safety.
Local Leaders Applaud the Investment
Westchester County Executive Kenneth Jenkins emphasized the transformative impact of the Roaring Brook project, calling it a “game-changer” for commuters and emergency responders. New York State Assemblymember Chris Burdick praised the funding as a vital step in addressing longstanding traffic and safety issues.
Putnam County Legislator Nancy Montgomery, whose husband was a victim of a 2013 commuter rail crash, highlighted the importance of prioritizing safety for New Yorkers.
Port Jervis Mayor Cicalese noted that the grant would not only improve safety but also boost economic development by enhancing accessibility in the downtown area.
Federal Program Focuses on Rail Safety and Mobility
The Rail Crossing Elimination Grant Program aims to improve safety and efficiency at highway-rail and pathway-rail crossings. Established through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, the program represents a significant investment in public safety and transportation infrastructure.
Schumer vowed to continue pushing for additional funding to make crossings safer throughout the Hudson Valley, ensuring that commuters, businesses, and communities can travel more safely and efficiently.
