Public gets first chance to sound off on Port Authority Bus Terminal replacement
NEW YORK -- The public is getting the chance to weigh in on the plan to replace the 73-year-old Port Authority Bus Terminal, and its multi-billion-dollar price tag.
Hearings got underway Tuesday morning.
"We need this renovation, honestly," one Manhattan resident said.
"It has been the same forever. You can tell it's old and worn down," added Byinnah Jones of New Jersey.
Some riders had the opportunity to see and learn about the $10 billion replacement project during the first of four public hearings held in Midtown.
Officials showcased renderings of a new structure, featuring brighter lighting, high ceilings, modern spaces, and direct access to other public transit options.
"I was glad to see that there's an attention to the accessibility. I'm a senior citizen now," said Nancy Sheran of Manhattan.
The plan also includes a proposal to permanently close 41st Street between Eighth and Ninth avenues to allow for a more direct connection of the terminal. New ramps leading in and out of the Lincoln Tunnel will also be built.
The Port Authority says a temporary facility will be constructed just along the original bus terminal while the work gets done.
However, some area residents have concerns about what that could do to the community.
"It's a travesty for the neighborhood to lose Astro's green space and the benefits to the community and we do not have a temporary home once construction starts on our lot," Ryan Brodski said.
"We are in the middle of it for the duration, so it's going to be kind of a nightmare," Joan Greenfield added.
The transit agency says it will work on minimizing impacts to the area when construction begins by the end of this year. CBS New York was told once the public input process is finished, the Federal Transit Administration will then have to sign off on the plan, which could happen as soon as this summer.
The project is expected to be completed in 2032.
Right now, a 45-day public comment period is taking place. It will wrap up in mid-March.
The Port Authority said the public can submit comments online or in-person at its public hearings. Tuesday's hearing is the only planned in-person chance for the public comments, but additional virtual sessions will be held
- 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 21
- 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 21
- 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 22
Registering in advance is recommended for the virtual sessions.