Gateway Development Commission (GDC)

The Gateway Development Commission (GDC) is a bi-state agency established to oversee and facilitate the Gateway Program, a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing the infrastructure of the Northeast Corridor (NEC) rail system between New York and New Jersey. The NEC is the most heavily used passenger rail line in the United States.

It serves approximately 800,000 daily passengers across eight states and Washington D.C. The Gateway Program focuses on improving this critical transportation corridor to meet growing demand.

Hudson Tunnel Project

The centerpiece of the Gateway Program is the Hudson Tunnel Project (HTP), which involves constructing a new two-tube tunnel under the Hudson River. It also includes rehabilitating the existing 115-year-old North River Tunnel.

This project is critical to maintain and expand rail capacity as the current tunnels are in deteriorating condition and insufficient for increasing commuter and intercity travel needs.

Funding and Financial Commitment

In July 2024, the GDC secured full funding for the HTP, marking a significant milestone. The funding package includes a $6.88 billion Full Funding Grant Agreement from the Federal Transit Administration and $4.06 billion in Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing loans.

The total funding amounts to $16 billion, representing the largest financial commitment ever for a rail transportation project in the United States.

Other Development Initiatives

The GDC is also involved in revitalizing and developing regional properties. In February 2025, Gateway Merchant Banking, a subsidiary of GDC, received site plan approval for a $350 million mixed-use redevelopment project at the historic Orange Memorial Hospital site.

The redevelopment will include:

• 1,005 apartments, with up to 20% designated as affordable housing
• Creation of a family-friendly destination
• Public amenities such as an outdoor ice/roller skating rink
• A public plaza for community use

Locations and Impact

The GDC's headquarters are located at 2 Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105. Additionally, the agency operates in East Orange, New Jersey, where it is engaged in local development projects.

The agency's initiatives are expected to:

• Create tens of thousands of jobs
• Generate significant economic activity
• Contribute to the region's growth and resilience