ISSUE OF GREAT CONCERN TO COMMUNITY YEARS AGO RETURNS WITHOUT RESIDENTS’ KNOWLEDGE

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) is raising concerns about the Cross Harbor Freight Program, which was an issue of great concern to the community years ago and has now returned.

CHFP, a program championed by Congressman Jerold Nadler, is intended to evaluate alternatives designed to improve the movement of freight across the New York Harbor. The results would bring a network of freight trains through various Brooklyn communities.

Assemblyman Hikind contacted John Degnan, Chairman of Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, to object to the process—or lack of process—regarding the program.

“The CHFP is intended to improve the movement of freight across New York Harbor between the east-of-Hudson and west-of-Hudson regions,” Hikind explained. “In theory, by improving the movement of goods across the harbor, the CHFP would provide near- and long-term improvements to the regional freight network, reduce truck traffic congestion, improve air quality, and provide economic benefits. But it could also impact my constituents and they have a right to information and input before this project moves any further.”

Several weeks ago, Congressman Nadler visited Hikind’s office, as well as other elected officials, to discuss the importance and long-term benefits of this project. However, the Port Authority, which is responsible for this program, bypassed the approval of communities that the CHFP may impact.

“While a public hearing is set to soon take place at Brooklyn Borough Hall, my constituents have not been properly notified regarding this hearing,” said Hikind. “Further, a simple notice would in no way serve to let people know what is being proposed and who it may impact. If freight is proposed to run through my district and neighboring districts, then Community Boards 10, 12 and 14 should first have opportunities for local hearings regarding the proposal. Our residents should have ample opportunity to ask questions and express their concerns. I have concerns about the impact of CHFP and am very apprehensive that my constituents have not been given a voice in this process.”

Hikind echoed his colleague NYS Senator Simcha Felder in asking that the period for public comment on the project (set to close on February 27, 2015) be extended indefinitely. He also credited Barry Spitzer, District Manager of Community Board 12, for his diligence in bringing attention to the matter.

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