A section of the Jersey City waterfront has reopened after more than five years of construction. The Port Authority wrapped up construction of Newport’s decaying Pier 9 — located near the LeFrak Lighthouse.
Pier 9 provides access to the New Jersey River Ventilation Building. The nondescript building acts as one of the Holland Tunnel’s four ventilation shafts pumping fresh air into the tunnel every 90 seconds. (An identical ventilation building can be found on the New York side of the Hudson).
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During the construction process, the 88-year-old timber pier was replaced with a durable concrete and steel structure, announced the Port Authority. The old pier was deteriorating due to marine wildlife.
As part of the replacement project, the Port Authority also renovated the public park surrounding the pier. This means that residents can finally enjoy continuous waterfront access from JC to Hoboken without having to detour onto River Drive. Cyclists and runners will now see new lighting, benches, and new fencing. Security cameras were also installed along that stretch of the waterfront.
The entire project was estimated at $94.6 million, but the final cost was $86 million. It was finished a year ahead of schedule.
