The Hudson River Ground Stabilization Project will stabilize the riverbed on the Manhattan side of the Hudson River to enable tunnel boring machines to excavate the new tunnel and protect the riverbed ecosystem.

The Hudson River Ground Stabilization (HRGS) Project involves injecting grout into the silt that makes up 1,200 feet of shallow riverbed on the Manhattan side of the Hudson River then creating columns of soil mixed with cement and water. The end result will be a block of reinforced earth off the Manhattan shoreline that is strong enough for tunnel construction to begin without disrupting the river ecosystem.

The HRGS Project is the first heavy construction project of the Hudson Tunnel Project (HTP).

Early surveying work to prepare for the HRGS Project began in May 2024, and heavy construction started summer 2024. Work began in the middle of the channel and is progressing eastward toward Manhattan.

Current Activities & Next Steps

The HRGS Project will be completed in two phases:

  • Phase One included the design and construction of a test cofferdam, bathymetric and geophysical surveying, identification and removal of obstructions, and completion of a demonstration test program.
  • Phase Two will use the findings from Phase One to complete the heavy construction portion of the project. Construction is expected to be completed in 2027.

Quick Facts

Project Purpose

  • Stabilize the riverbed to enable the start of tunnel boring and protect the river ecosystem

Notable Elements

  • First heavy construction project of the HTP
  • Work zones enclosed by temporary cofferdams to protect marine life
  • Phased approach limits ecosystem impacts

Estimated Construction Completion

2027

Contact Information

  • Phone: 1-800-396-5238
  • Email: HRGSconstruction@gatewayprogram.org

Phasing the work in this way limits impacts on the river ecosystem by minimizing the area affected by work and enabling heavy construction to be timed to avoid disrupting fish spawning seasons. Work zones will also be enclosed by temporary sheet pile cofferdams, providing further protection for marine life.

Boater Safety

The Gateway Development Commission (GDC) is coordinating with the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure the safety of commercial and recreational river traffic in the channel. To be added to GDC’s regular Boater Safety Alert list, please send your name and email address to info@gatewayprogram.org.