2014/2015 Advocacy Priorities for Transportation

15 Oct 2014/2015 Advocacy Priorities for Transportation

The Meadowlands Chamber has been at the forefront of mobility issues for over 30 years. We recognize that the economic promise of this region is dependent upon a transportation infrastructure that is functional, in good repair and has adequate capacity to serve the region’s residents and businesses, resulting in efficient and effective travel options for movement of people and goods. The region’s infrastructure, while much improved, still has elements in many of these aspects that require attention. The demand for public transit has increased and is straining the capacity of both rail and bus facilities. The rail tunnels linking New Jersey and New York are aging and vulnerable. It is vitally important to create and maintain a comprehensive and world-class network of regional connections, otherwise our economic potential and quality of life cannot be sustained or improved.

The Meadowlands Chamber is committed to acting as a catalyst to implement needed transportation planning and improvements in the region. We continue to host our series of Transportation Summit conferences, bringing together transportation agencies and experts to discuss critical needs and solutions. Our most recent Policy Paper was presented at the September 12, 2014 Transportation Summit. At that event, the current status and concepts for the future were discussed by senior-level executives from key agencies including NJ Transit, The Port Authority of NY & NJ, Amtrak, and Transportation 4 America, to name a few. The document contains a set of priorities for advocacy by the Chamber, and can be a touchstone for the businesses and citizens of the Meadowlands and North Jersey to press for needed infrastructure investments.

Author: Diana E. Fainberg, PP, AICP