VAI prioritizes safety for operators at Gateway Program The Gateway Program is a series of rail infrastructure projects that will improve the most congested 10-mile section of the US Northeast Corridor, adding needed resiliency and creating the capacity for a doubling of passenger trains under the Hudson River into New York Penn Station, the nation’s busiest rail facility. The most significant piece to the Gateway Program is the Hudson Tunnel Project, which involves construction of a new Hudson River rail tunnel serving New York Penn Station and the rehabilitation of the existing Hurricane Sandy–damaged North River Tunnel. Those flying in the area know very well that the project is underway and that cranes have been in the Hudson River for months. Recently, reports surfaced about nighttime visibility concerns and potential lighting issues with project cranes located in the Hudson River. VAI Northeastern US Regional Representative Josh Rousseau quickly engaged with our Gateway Program partners and local operators to ensure that all required lighting systems are fully operational. As a result, both Gateway staff and FAA officials have confirmed that all systems are fully functioning and added that a boom tip light was repositioned. These actions, along with new 24-hour lighting at the river site, will dramatically improve safety for operators in the area. Rousseau continues to highlight our vertical aviation issues related to the project for top-of-mind awareness for all officials involved. VAI’s passionate commitment to safety is second to none and we thank the Gateway team for their partnership as we continue to make safety the priority for all those flying in and around the Hudson Tunnel Project.
