Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Viaduct Meeting Recap held January 12, 2010 at Elks

Last night Ian Sacs and Brandy Forbes of Hoboken City Hall conducted a meeting at the Elks Clubs to inform Hoboken Citizens details of the Viaduct Project at 14th as planned by Hudson County.

The meeting started out with Ian Sacs managing expectations a bit in that the main construction plans have been pretty much finalized by the County but that Hoboken residents could have some say in what occupies the space below the viaduct for three blocks between Grand and Madison Streets.

The main highlights of the plan include the following:
  • Replacement was needed as the current bridge has deficiencies including deterioration of main load carrying members. Yikes!
  • Total Cost $45 million.
  • Constructiuon duration 3 years.
  • Construction will maintain one lane in each direction.
  • Pedestrian traffic to be maintained.
  • The grade of the viaduct bridge will remain about the same of what it is currently.
  • The first two blocks bewtween Willow and Grand will be be completely enclosed and bricked off as per design and structural requirements.
  • The other 3 blocks between Grand and Madison underneath the bridge can be used by Hoboken for whatever purposes it desires.
  • Foot traffic only on South Marginal Road between Grand and Madison.
  • Eastbound Car traffic on North  Marginal Road between Madison and Clinton will be allowed.
  • Northbound traffic on Clinton will be closed off with a K-turn at 14th Street. Note: Ian Sacs said that if he had been involved in the planning phases he would have made the recommendation to explore options not closing this off. Ian has only been on the job for three months.
  • Two lanes at 12 feet width in each direction meet Federal requirements for receiving grants.
  • Corner by gas station will have extra (third) lane for turning.
The meeting was attended by Councilwoman Carol Marsh, Councilwoman Beth Mason, Council President Peter Cunningham, Councilman Dave Mello and Councilman Nino Giacchi. About 70 residents attended the meeting by my estimation.


Director Ian Sacs explains the highlights of the 14th Street Viaduct plan to residents of Hoboken


Residents of Hoboken examine the plans


Clinton Street will be closed to vehicles passing under northbound on 14th Street once built


Residents left their comments and feedback on the plans

Share/Bookmark