Comment EI-33074
Received or sent (printed as 10/4/2023)
The Harsimus Branch Embankment is a cornerstone (literally) in the foundation of Jersey City. It's historical significance to how the city was built and how the historical district in surrounds, is irreplaceable. So often we look back after historical buildings and structures have been taken down and wonder why the people of those times do that, (i.e., Roosevelt Stadium in Jersey City, the original MSG)? Once we demolish something like that, we lose forever the historical significance of that building or structure. The potential benefits of this Embankment to the city of Jersey City far surpasses what a developer could provide to the city. Jersey City does not need more luxury housing what the city needs is more parks and outdoor spaces, as seen in a recent study that shows Jersey City's tree canopy has dipped to below that of New York City to a paltry, 10.9%. The Embankment can help boost that number by creating a 'Highline Park' that is friendly to walkers, runners and families alike to enjoy the city from a unique perspective. Finally, as stated by many constituents in the meeting, Conrail should not be rewarded for trying to circumvent the process and sell to a developer before consulting your department. This sets a terrifying precedent for other rail lines to be sold in back door deals only to come to the Surface Transportation Board later because 'they were unaware of the process' or 'forgot that step'. Please use your power to preserve this piece of Jersey City History so it can be saved for prosperity. Thank you,
Submitted by: Stephanie DiBrita · Jersey City, NJ
The Board publishes this comment in its environmental-comment table for this proceeding. It is quoted here as printed; nothing is inferred from it, and it states the commenter's own position in their own words, not this record's.
Permanent address docketyard.org/d/AB-167/sub/1189X/comment/EI-33074 · back to the docket sheet