Amtrak $13.5bn tunnel to link New York and New Jersey

The rail connection could boost the New Jersey economy

US rail operator Amtrak has announced plans for a $13.5bn (£8.4bn) rail project to connect New York City and New Jersey.

The company said it would spend $50m on preliminary engineering and design work on two tunnels under the Hudson River.
New York and New Jersey states, as well as local authorities, could contribute further funds, Amtrak said.
A similar project was cancelled by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie last year for being too expensive.
The project could be completed by 2020, Amtrak said.
"The two new trans-Hudson tunnels envisioned under this plan will provide long-sought, peak period operational capacity and is an investment that will improve transportation flexibility and reliability for decades to come," the company said.
New Jersey Senator Frank Lautenberg said: "The Gateway Project is a vision for our future that will shorten commutes, create jobs, increase property values and grow New Jersey's economy".