Sources at both the NYC Economic Development Corporation and Congressman Nadler's office say they are still "studying alternatives" for allocation of funds, including: purchasing more barges, improving terminal and intermodal facilities, acquiring new facilities, and improving terminal access.

With regional truck traffic worsening, better rail freight access into NYC and Long Island is badly needed - EDC should set goals for when it plans to see real increases in cross-harbor rail shipments. The entry of three major railroads into the metropolitan market makes the time ripe for a variety of new arrangements to boost east-of Hudson rail freight operations.