Hudson Tunnel Project Names New Leaders as Construction Advances

The Gateway Development Commission has announced two major leadership appointments as work accelerates on the Hudson Tunnel Project, a massive infrastructure effort that directly affects Hudson County’s transportation future.

James Starace will become Chief of Program Delivery next month, bringing over 40 years of experience, including work with the NJ Turnpike Authority on the $11 billion Hudson County Extension project and past leadership at the Port Authority. Hamed Nejad, who has already helped push major construction packages past 50% completion, has been promoted to Chief Engineer.

The Hudson Tunnel Project includes ten construction packages across New Jersey, New York, and under the Hudson River. That includes active sites near the Palisades, with tunneling beneath Hudson County expected in the coming phases. Starace and Nejad will over look technical design, engineering, construction, permitting, and environmental compliance.

GDC officials praised the hires, calling the project one of the most complex in the nation. “We need the best of the best leading the way,” they said in a joint statement.

For Hudson County residents and commuters, the appointments mark another step toward a long-promised upgrade to rail service. Improved reliability, safety, and long-term economic benefits are expected once the new tunnel is complete.

“The Hudson Tunnel Project is the most urgent transit project of our time,” said Starace. “I look forward to getting the job done for riders who deserve a 21st-century rail experience.”