PANYNJ authorizes funds for PATH extension to Newark airport

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) board late last week authorized $57 million in planning funds for the first phase of the Port Authority Trans Hudson (PATH) rail extension to Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.

The board's action provides the money needed to advance the project through preliminary design and the required environmental review process, PANYNJ officials said in a press release.

The allocation includes funds for preliminary engineering work, as well as program and project management services.

Currently, PATH's Newark-to-World Trade Center line terminates at Newark Penn Station.

Subject to environmental review, the $1.7 billion extension would include a new station in Newark's South Ward Dayton Street neighborhood, a new rail yard and modification of existing platforms at Newark Penn Station to accommodate increased passenger flow.

Construction on the extension is expected to begin in 2020, with revenue service to start in 2026.