Jersey City Council Unanimously Supports State Funding for Bergen Arches Feasibility Study

Proposed State legislation would provide $100,000 to explore the historic rail corridor’s potential to be repurposed for mass transit and green space.

On Wednesday, May 25, 2022, the Jersey City Council voted unanimously to approve a resolution endorsing a state budget proposal allocating $100,000 for a feasibility study of the Bergen Arches. The legislation, put forth by Senator Brian P. Stack and Assemblyman Raj Mukherji, would provide funds to examine how the mile-long stretch of unused railroad could address green space and transit needs in Jersey City. 

The feasibility study would be the first step in assessing the Bergen Arches’ potential for adaptive re-use and in determining how the former railway, which was decommissioned in 1957, can best serve Jersey City, Hudson County, and New Jersey. 

The council resolution, spearheaded by Ward C Councilman Rich Boggiano, acknowledges the Bergen Arches’ historical significance while focusing on future opportunities to expand publicly accessible green space and provide more transit options to Jersey City residents. 

The Bergen Arches Preservation Coalition (BAPC) has been advocating for public access to the Bergen Arches site since 2018. BAPC members in attendance were bolstered by language in the resolution recognizing shared-use paths for cyclists and pedestrians within the Bergen Arches. 

BAPC Project Director, Rahid Cornejo, emphasized how activating the Bergen Arches will facilitate greater connectivity both city-wide and regionally. “The Bergen Arches are a critical link in connecting the Essex-Hudson Greenway and the Sixth Street/Harsimus Branch Embankment. This growing network of shared-used greenways will provide safe biking and walking routes through our communities and improve access to green space for more Jersey City neighborhoods.” 

BAPC President, Gregory D. Edgell, expanded on the organization's goals following the resolution's approval. “We feel a minimum viable product approach, a simple bike/walk path or a greenway through the Bergen Arches, will minimize complexity and maximize community benefits in the shortest possible timeframe.” 

Edgell added, “Progress in the near-term is a top priority. The Bergen Arches have been locked away for more than six decades; Jersey City is finally ready for that to change.”

How You Can Get Involved

• Send a quick & easy pre-formatted Letter of Support to representatives in your district. (Takes less than 90 seconds!)

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