Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $215 million in federal funding to replace the Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge, a critical infrastructure improvement project that will increase capacity and safety on the Empire Corridor, improve the region’s freight network, and support economic growth, job creation, and tourism opportunities in the Capital Region and beyond.
“Upgrading the Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge will help boost New York’s economy and support our commitment to a cleaner, greener future,” Governor Hochul said. “This investment will ensure efficient and reliable transportation of essential goods, enhance public safety, and create jobs in the Capital Region.”
The new bridge, with a project cost of over $300 million, will replace the existing 123-year-old bridge, eliminating a vertical clearance restriction along the Empire Corridor. The new design will accommodate double-stack rail cars, allowing for increased freight capacity and the movement of larger volumes of goods more efficiently between New York City and points west, including the Port of Albany and other destinations across the country.
Senator Chuck Schumer said, “The federal funding announced today for this critical infrastructure project is a major win for New York State and a win for our economy. Replacing the Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge with a new and improved bridge will enable the transportation of larger volumes of goods and materials on the Empire Corridor, create jobs, strengthen our supply chains, and enhance public safety. I have fought hard to deliver this federal funding to make this transformative project possible, and I applaud Governor Hochul’s leadership in securing these funds and prioritizing transportation infrastructure improvements across New York.”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “As New Yorkers, we know that our aging infrastructure is holding us back. That’s why I fought alongside Senator Schumer to secure $215 million in federal funds to replace the 123-year-old Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge in Albany. This critical investment will create good-paying jobs, improve our supply chains, and boost economic growth across the Empire State.”
The existing bridge consists of two moveable swing spans with an approximate 22-foot vertical clearance restriction, which limits the type and quantity of freight that can be transported on this critical corridor. The replacement bridge will have a vertical clearance of 26 feet 6 inches, allowing trains to operate without height restrictions, enhancing efficiency and supporting economic development.
The design of the new bridge incorporates public input received during two public information meetings and a virtual scoping meeting held in 2020. Information collected helped refine the overall project scope and identify preferred design elements. The project will also include safety improvements and new pedestrian and bicycle accommodations to enhance connectivity in the surrounding area.
Congressman Paul Tonko said, “For too long, the Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge has been a bottleneck for our local economy, and an impediment to revitalization efforts along the Hudson River waterfront. With this substantial federal investment, we can restore this critical piece of infrastructure, unlocking new economic opportunities for the Capital Region. This will create good-paying jobs, improve safety, and support our climate goals by increasing the efficiency of freight rail operations. I applaud Senator Schumer and Governor Hochul for their leadership on this project, and I look forward to continuing to work with them to build a better future for the Capital Region.”
The design of the new bridge will also include aesthetic enhancements to improve the visual appeal of this prominent landmark in the City of Albany. The design will complement the surrounding historic district and waterfront area.
Assemblymember John T. McDonald III said, “The Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge project is an important investment in our community and our economy. I commend Governor Hochul for her support of this project and its potential to create jobs and boost economic development in the Capital Region.”
The project is part of Governor Hochul’s commitment to revitalizing New York’s infrastructure. Since taking office in August 2021, Governor Hochul has announced plans to invest over $33 billion in infrastructure projects across the state. These projects will create jobs, improve public safety, and enhance the quality of life for New Yorkers.
The Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge replacement project is expected to be completed in 2027.
NYSDOT Acting Commissioner David A. King said, “NYSDOT is grateful to our federal partners for this significant investment in the replacement of the Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge. This project will not only improve safety and efficiency on the Empire Corridor but also provide new economic opportunities for the Capital Region. We look forward to working with our partners to deliver this transformative project.”
Amtrak Executive Vice President, Infrastructure and Technology, Patrick J. Bossert said, “Replacing the Livingston Avenue Railroad Bridge will help us to improve the efficiency and reliability of passenger rail service up and down the Empire Corridor. Amtrak thanks Governor Hochul and our federal partners for their ongoing support and commitment to investing in our nation’s passenger rail network.”
CSX Transportation Vice President, State Government and Community Affairs, David B. Ratner said, “CSX thanks the federal government for providing funding to replace this vital piece of infrastructure. This new bridge will address bridge height limitations, improve the safety and efficiency of our operations, increase rail capacity, and support economic growth for our region. As part of the state’s 2050 Climate Action Plan, we commend the state and our partners for prioritizing climate-friendly rail projects, like this one, to address carbon reduction goals.”
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