Construction Management of the East River Tunnel Rehabilitation

The East River Tunnel (ERT), in service for more than a century, is a vital part of the Northeast Corridor (NEC), the nation’s busiest passenger rail route linking Boston and Washington, D.C. The tunnel’s four single-track, electrified tubes are used by Amtrak, the MTA Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), and New Jersey Transit (NJT), providing a critical connection between New York Penn Station and Sunnyside Yard in Queens. Years of continuous operation, along with damage sustained during Superstorm Sandy, have led to considerable wear, making extensive rehabilitation essential to maintain safe, reliable, and efficient service.

Amtrak’s comprehensive rehabilitation program includes structural repairs, electrical system upgrades, and resilience measures to protect the tunnel from future severe weather. IVY Engineering Group is providing construction management support as part of the project team, helping oversee contractor performance, monitor progress, and ensure compliance with quality, safety, and schedule requirements. This work will not only restore the tunnel’s condition but also enhance its durability and improve service for millions of NEC passengers.