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Orange County asks New York to fund feasibility study for West Shore Line passenger rail
Summary
The Legislature unanimously adopted a resolution requesting state funding to study restoring passenger rail service on the CSX River Subdivision (West Shore Line), citing commuter demand, links to Stewart Airport, and congestion pricing impacts. Vote: 21–0.
The Orange County Legislature voted unanimously on Feb. 5 to request that New York State fund and initiate a feasibility study to evaluate restoring passenger rail service on the CSX River Subdivision (West Shore Line).
Legislator DeShanda T. Carter read the resolution on the floor, and sponsors argued the study is necessary to assess operational, engineering, ridership and economic viability. The resolution cites recent developments — including New York City congestion pricing and cancellation of the Newburgh‑Beacon ferry — as reasons to evaluate commuter alternatives that could connect west‑of‑Hudson communities (Highlands, Highland Falls, Cornwall, Newburgh, New Windsor) to New York City, Stewart International Airport and intermodal links.
The Legislature emphasized potential benefits including smart growth, equitable access to transportation and reduced carbon emissions. The measure directs the Clerk to forward certified copies to Governor Hochul and state legislative representatives; it passed by roll call (Ayes 21; Noes 0).
