And while airplane noise can be a concern for nearby residents, we can’t ignore how much this airport contributes to the area.

It keeps businesses running, supports necessary medical flights, and injects a significant amount of money into? the local economy.

So, while the noise is a real issue?, there’s much more to the story about what Teterboro offers.

Why Teterboro Airport is So Important to North Jersey

Teterboro Airport is a huge part of making?? sure Bergen County and North Jersey run smoothly.

Without it, the local economy would suffer, as the aviation business in Teterboro brings ma?jor benefits to the area.

Across the U.S., general aviation (like business jets) supports $247 bi?llion in economic activity annually and provides more than a million jobs.

In New Jersey alone, general aviation airports generate over $2.3 billion f??or the economy, ?with Teterboro Airport making up nearly half of that.

Not only does it help businesses thrive, but it’s also essential for emergency medical flights, serving the region’s hospitals.

How Business Aviation Helps Local Companies

Business aviation, especially at Teterboro, helps companies in the area ru?n more smoothly.

It allows businesses to f??ly directly where they need to go, make multiple stops daily, and c??arry important tools or equipment.

And this flexibility is a game-changer, especially for s??mall businesses.

In actual fact, 57% of business aviation support small companies with 500 or fewer employees, helping them perform better than their competitor?s w??ho don’t use this service.

Tackling Noise Problems and Supporting Local Residents

While Teterboro Airport is a big win for t??he local economy, it does have some issues, especially noise.

Under??standably, ne??arby residents have complained about loud planes disrupting their lives.

Thankfully, the airpor??t, Port Authority, and FAA have taken steps to address this.

They’ve introduced new flight paths t?hat steer planes over less populated areas, e??ncouraged quieter flying techniques, and used specific runways that create less noise.

On to?p of t?hat, Teterboro has quiet hours between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., which helps reduce disruption at night.

Many of the planes flying out of Teterboro now meet or exceed the strictest noise regulations, also kn??own as Stage 5, which shows the airport’s commitment to reducing noise.

However, it’s important to continue balancing the noise i??ssue while allowing the airport to provide the economic benefits it brings to the area.

Finding a Balance Between Growth and Community Concerns

The?re’s no denying that noise from the airport is a problem for some residents, but only focusing on the negatives ignores how much Tet?erboro contributes to the local economy.

Working with the Port Authority, FAA, and local community leaders, solutions are being developed to reduce noise without affecting Teterboro’s economic benefits to Bergen County and North Jersey.

It’s all about balance—taking care of the community’s needs while letting Teterboro continue its role in helping the area’s economy thrive.

With this move, the debate heats up about whether the law is fair and how i??t affects both public safety and individual rights.

The First Arrest Under Nassau County’s Mask Ban

In Nassau Coun?ty, the police made their first arrest under a new law called the Mask Transparency Act?? on a Sunday night near the border between Levittown and Hicksville, about 30 miles from Manhattan.

The police responded to reports of a suspicious indi??vidual and, when they arrived, encountered 18-year-old Wesslin Omar Ramirez Castillo, who was dressed in black and wearing a ski mask that o??nly left his eyes visible.

His be?havior raised suspicion, particularly when he tried to conceal a large? bulge in his waistband.

Upon further investigation, police found the bulg?e was a 14-inch knife. Although Ram??irez Castillo initially resisted, he was arrested without further incident.

He now faces charges in court for?? weapon possession, obstructing the police, and violating the new mask law.

The Mask Transparency Act: Law Enforcement Tool or Potential Overreach?

The Mask Transparency Act, recently signed into law by Nassau C?ounty Executive Bruce Blakeman, prohibits wearing masks intended to hide one’s identity in public.

The law was introduced in response to an increase in antisemitic incid??ents but includes exceptions for masks worn for health, safety, religious, or cultural reasons.

Police Commiss??ioner Patrick Ryder and Executive Blakeman defended the law, stating ??it provided the necessary grounds for police to stop Ramirez Castillo and prevent a possible crime.

Ryder claimed ??that? Ramirez Castillo admitted he was instructed to wear the mask and given the knife to commit a robbery.

However, the law has its critics. Keith Ross, a criminal justice professor at John Jay College, argued that while the law may provide reasonable susp??icion for a sto?p, police are not necessarily required to take action in such cases.

On the other hand, Scott Banks, attorney-in-chief at the Legal Aid Soci??ety of Nassau County, challenged the legality of the stop, saying that there was no clear evidence that wearing a face mask was intended to conceal crimin??al behavior.

Community Reactions and Legal Challenges to the Mask Ban

People in the community have mixed reactions about the mask ban. Some, like retired officer Edwin Elias,? think it helps keep people safe.

Others worry that the law might negatively aff?ect vulnerable groups, like elderly people or those with medical issues who need to wear masks.

Additionally, the law is facing legal challenges. Disability Rights of New York has filed a lawsuit, arguing that the mask ban discriminates against people with disabilities and violates constitutional rights??.

Also, the New York Civil Liberties Union warned that?? the law could be used unfairly by the police.

Despite these concerns, Nassau County officials have dismissed the criticisms, with Executive Blakeman labeling the lawsuits as “frivolous.�/p> ]]> //iccwins98.com/news/north-bergen/rob-menendez-andy-kim-tour-12b-gateway-project/ Mon, 19 Aug 2024 15:00:29 +0000 //iccwins98.com/?p=169517 Last Monday, Congressmen Andy Kim (NJ-03) and Rob Menendez (NJ-08) visited the Gateway Project sites in Weehawken and North Bergen, Ne??w Jersey.

This pro??ject is a big deal as it’s the largest public transportation investment in U.S. history, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

This visit was all about checking on the progress of this game-changing project,?? which is set to bring huge improvements to the region.

$12 Billion for Better Transit

The Gateway Pro??ject is set to make a huge difference in transport?ation for New Jersey and the entire East Coast.

The federal government is investing more than $12 billion in this project, much of it toward building a new Hudson Tunnel.

During their visit, Kim and Menendez got a firsthand look at critical spots, such as stagin??g areas, fan plants, and the paths?? leading to the new Hudson Tunnel.

This tunnel will help fix long-standing issues with the area’s transportation system, which affects millions of people and many businesses.

Congre?ss??man Andy Kim made it clear how important this project is.

Jobs, Environmental Benefits, and a Stronger Economy

Congressm??an Menendez agreed, saying that this project will bring big ch??anges.

He pointed out that this investment will do more than improve transit—it will create thousands of good jobs, help ??tackle climate change, and strengthen our infrastructure. Essentially, this project should improve life for everyone in New Jersey and beyond.

As the state’s current transit system has been outdated for too long, this project will finally provide the upgrades pe?ople have been waiting for.

The new jobs will also greatly help?? the local economy, offering steady, good-paying work to many families.

Another major win is the environmental aspect. As we all kno??w, climate change is a big issue, and this project takes a step toward making travel greener.

Thankfully, the Gateway Project aims to enhance public? transit and cut emissions—steps that help protect ou??r environment and strengthen our infrastructure for future challenges.

Working Together for New Jersey’s Future

Congressmen Kim and Menendez’s teamwork shows a shared vision for a better New Jersey.

Despite the political issues surrounding the state, especially with the recent news about Senator ??Bob Menendez, Rob’s father, these two leaders are focused on making sure the state’s infrastructure gets ?the upgrades it needs.

Since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in 2021, Congres?sman Kim has been pushing to ensure New Jersey gets its fair share of the funds.

He’s been primarily focused on key projects like the Hudson Tunnel and improving Amtrak and NJ Transit services.

What’s great is that his work on variou??s committees has helped direct this money where it’s needed most, so that New Jersey’s infrastructure can meet f??uture demands.

As they collaborate to ensure the project’s success, their efforts highlight the impact this investment will have on shaping the future of transportation on the East Coast.

In a nutshell, the Gateway Project is set to improve the lives of millions, create job??s, and build a? stronger infrastructure for the future.

Coach USA Stops Running NJ Transit Bus Routes

Coach USA, a big bus company, will stop running NJ Transit local bus services in Hu?dson, Bergen, and Passaic Counties. This change will affect thousands of riders who use these buses every day.

Coach USA filed for bankrupt??cy last month and told NJ Transit on July 10 that it plans to end its contracts b??y August 16. This means the buses provided by NJ Transit to Coach USA will be returned.

Many Riders Affected by Coach USA’s Decision

This decision affects 20 local bus routes ??and t??housands of North Jersey riders. These routes are:

• Bergen County: 751, 752, 753, 755, 756, 762, 772, and 780
• Passaic County: 702, 705, 707, 709, 722, 744, 746, 748, and 758
• Hudson County: 2, 84, and 88

A spokesperson for Coach ??USA said they will try to keep service running until August 1?6. After that, NJ Transit will have many problems to solve.

Coach USA’s Financial Struggles and Employee Layoffs

Coach U??SA decided to stop running these routes due to financial problems that were worsened by fewer riders during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Like many other private bus operators, the company received less govern??ment s?upport than public transportation agencies and airlines did. Because of these changes, over 250 workers will lose their jobs.

To save some services and jobs, Coach USA has made deals with companies like The Renco Group, Inc. Suburban Transit, part of Coach USA, operates 14 NJ Transit routes in Middlesex County and one in Union Count??y.

NJ Transit’s Efforts to Keep Services Running

To help with the changes, NJ Transit ??has contracted Hoboken-based Academy Express, LLC, to take over the Passa??ic routes starting September 1.

NJ Transit is looking at all options to keep bu?s services running, ?including finding other private companies or using their resources to cover the routes.

Despite these efforts, N??J Transit is already exper??iencing driver shortages, often resulting in canceled services.

The agency is working hard to find solutions to ensure commuters ha?ve reliable trans?portation during this time.

Incident Details and Immediate Response

On May 14 aft??ernoon, a 15-year-old girl from Cliffside Park was struck by a car while she was sitting in a d??riveway in North Bergen.

The accident happened around 4:30 p.m. in the area of Woodcliff Avenue and Palisade Plaza, close to North Hudson Park. North Bergen police Capt. Nicholas Galliano provided details of the incident on Wednes?day afternoon.

Capt. Galliano stated that the girl was sitting on the ground, potentially in the driver’s blind spot, which led to her being struck.

At that moment, police of??ficer John Nunez was nearby and quickly responded to the scene. Nunez and some neighbors used a jack to lift the SUV off the girl.

Emergency Response and Victim’s Status

Following the swift actions to free her, the girl was taken to the trauma unit at Hackensack Uni??versity Medical Center.

She’s now in stable condition. Authorities have not released the names of the girl or the driver involved in ??the incident.

Investigation Update and Official Statements

The North Bergen police are currently investigating the crash, which is?? believed to be a tragic a?ccident.

Capt. Galliano said that the investigation is?? ongoing, but all signs point to an unfortunate event rather than any malicious intent.

In summary, the incident involvin??g the 15-year-old girl f??rom Cliffside Park has highlighted the importance of being aware of driveways and blind spots.

Thanks to the quick response of Officer Nunez and the neighbors, the girl was rescued promptly and is now recovering in stable condition at the hospital. The authorities will continue their investigation to understand all the details of t??his tragic accident.

NYC Rail Project Approaches Critical Funding Milestone

The long-delayed $16 billion rail tunnel project, aimed at connecting New York and North Bergen, Ne?w Jersey, is on the brink of securing federal funding before th?e upcoming US presidential election.

The Gateway Development Commission, which? sponsors the project, targets the end of su?mmer to get the final signatures needed, brushing off concerns about potential political changes.

Gateway Development Commission CEO Kris Kolluri expressed confidence in the project’s progress.

Finalizing Federal Support for Hudson Tunnel

The commission expects roughly $12 billion in federal support and aims to finalize the agr?eement within? 60 to 90 days.

Once the full funding agreement is signed, the project will enter a formal contract with t??he federal government, securing the final fi??nancial commitment needed for its completion.

The new tunnel and upgrades to the existing century-old tunnel are critical for reducing congestion under the Hudson River and improving ??the Northeast Corridor, Amtrak’s busiest route, which carrie?s over 2,200 daily trains from Washington to Boston.

Historical Impact of the Hudson Tunnel Project

The Hudson Tunnel Project’s history traces back to the Access to the Region’s Core project, which Governor Christie canceled in 2010 due to cost concerns.

The Gatewa?y project was proposed a year later but faced delays unde??r the Trump administration.

The new tunnel, a vital infrastructure update for ?the region, will replace the existing tunnel damag??ed by Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

Economic Benefits of the New Hudson Tunnel

James Hughes, professor and dean emeritus of the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University, said the tunnel’s significance for the regional economy. It carries more passengers between New York and Washington, D.C., than airlines.

A report by the Regional Plan Association finds that the Hudson Tunnel Pro??ject will genera?te $19.6 billion in economic activity and create approximately 95,000 jobs during its construction.

Stephen Sigmund, chief of public outreach for the Gateway Development Commission, underscored the project’s necessity for New Jersey residents, providing “quality, reliable rail transportation.”

Timeline and Financing of the Hudson Tunnel Project

The project is set to begin majo??r construction?? in July 2024.

The new tunnel is expected to be completed by?? 2035, and the old tunnel will be rehabilitated by 2038.

New York is committing about $1.34 billion, New Jersey arou??nd $308 million, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey $2.68 billion to the project.

The Garden State is already investing $1.6 billion in a new Portal North Bridge, which is crucial for the Northeast Corridor l??ine.

Reducing Hudson Tunnel’s Environmental Impact

North Bergen officials and the Gateway Development Commission are negotiating to reduce the project’s environmental impact.

Mayor Nicholas Sacco highlighted co??ncerns about increased truck traffic.

The commission is considering using freight rail to transport construction materials, which could significantly reduce tr??uck ??numbers.

Collaboration and Future Steps

Stephen Guido, CEO of Strategic Rail Solutions, proposed an alternative rail plan to minimize truck use, emphasizing environ?mental justice and reducing the carbon footprint.

Alth??ough there is no current track connection to the project site, Guido has designed a rail spur plan and is in discussions with pre-qualified contractors about implementing it.

Kolluri assured that the Gateway Development Commission is committed to evaluating feasible alternatives and maintaining the project’s budget and schedule.

The Gateway Hudson Tunnel Project is a testament to the importanc?e of infrastructure development in supporting regional economies and ?enhancing transportation efficiency.

As the project advances, it promises significant benefits to the Nor??theast Corridor and beyond.

Arrest Follows Tip-Off About Murder Scheme

A North Bergen man, Miguel Cortes, has been charged with at?tempting to hire someone to murder a woman he knew, according to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez.

Cortes, ?37, was arrested on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, by the prosecutor’s o?ffice’s Major Case Unit outside his residence on Paterson Plank Road.

The North Bergen Police Dep??artment received a tip about the murder-for-hire scheme on May 9. The investigation revealed that Cortes offered money to another per??son to carry out the murder.

Fortunately, the intended victim was not harmed. T?he prosecutor’s office ha??s not disclosed the relationship between Cortes and the victim.

Swift Police Work Leads to Arrest in Murder-for-Hire Plot

On May 9, the North Bergen Police Department acted on a tip-off about a possible shooting in North Bergen.

Their i??nvestigation ??led to Miguel Cortes, who had allegedly offered money to someone to murder a woman he knew.

The swift actions of the police and the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Major Case Unit resulted in Cortes’s arrest without any harm coming to the intended victim.

Prosecutor Suarez praised the collaboration between the North Bergen Police Department and the Major Case Unit, emph?asizing the importance of the tip-off in preventing ??a potential tragedy.

Suspect Faces First-Degree Conspiracy Charge

Following his arr??est, Cortes was transported to the Hudson County Correctional Facility.

The state has filed a motion for his detention, which is sc?heduled for a hearing?? on Monday, May 20th.

Cortes faces a first-degree ?conspiracy to commit murder charge, a serious offense that could lead ??to severe penalties if he is convicted.

The shooting incident has sent shockwave??s through the community, leading to an outpouring of tributes.

Details of the Fatal Shooting on Marshall Drive

On the night of April 28th, shortly after 11:30 p.m., the Hoboken Police Depar?tment received a report?? of shots fired in the area of 320 Marshall Drive.

Officers discovered a crime scene outside the building where Damon Murray??, aged 21, suffe?red a gunshot wound to the abdomen.

Transported privately?? to Jersey City Medical Center, Murray was pronounced dead shortly after 12 a.m. on Monday, Apr??il 29th.

Arrest and Charges Against Albert Morales

Albert Morales, a 33-year-old resident of North Bergen, was apprehe??nded by the Massach?usetts State Police in Chicopee, Massachusetts.

He faces charges of murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon, as announced by the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office.

Morales will remain in custody in Massachusetts pen??ding?? his extradition to New Jersey.

Honoring Damon ‘Nunu’ Murray: Athlete and Mentor

Damon Murray, known affe?ctionately as “Nunu,�was a former athlete at Hoboken High School, where he excelled in football and basketba??ll.

He brief?ly joined Rutgers University as? a walk-on for the football team but returned home to assist his family.

Murray also worked with special needs children in the Hoboken school distr??ict and aspired to become a firefighter.

Community and Leadership Respond to Tragic Loss

The Hoboken community has expressed profound sorrow over Murray’s untimely death. Statements from local officials and school representatives describe him as a gifted athlete and a positive influence in the community.

A balloon-rising cerem?ony was held in his honor, and local leaders, including 4th Ward Councilman Ruben Ramos and HHA Chair Barbara Reyes, expressed deep sor??row and called for community action in his memory.

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla praised law enforcement’s rapid response and arrest and commended the coordinated effort between local and state police forces.

Legal Process Begins for Albert Morales

The arrest of Albert Morales marks the beginning of legal proce??edings concerning the tragic death of Damon Murray.

As he awaits extradition?? to New Jersey, the people of Hoboken and the affected families hope to find peace and justice for the loss of a young man who made a positive difference to many.

Stack’s Endorsement & Impact on Hudson County

Brian Stack, the State Senator for District 33 and Mayor of Union City, who previously began his sixth term, has thrown his support behind Craig Guy, Hudson County Executive, for the chairmanship of the Hudson County Democratic Organiz??ation (HCDO).

This decision is part of Stack’s ongoing disagreement with North Bergen and its political leadership.

Anthony Vainieri, the current HCDO Chair and a close ally of North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco is at the forefront of this controversy �Vainieri also chaired the Board of Commissioners for the seventh consecutive term, representin??g North Bergen.

Elected as HCDO Chair in June 2022, Vainieri has played a key role in the county’s political landscape, focusing on party unity and electoral success.

Behind the Scenes of HCDO’s Power Struggle

Stack’s main criticism of Vainieri revolves around what he perceives as a failure to unify and strengthen the Democratic Party in Hudson County.

Stack accuses Vainieri of being an “embarrassment” and claims that his leadership has led to the party being torn apart rather than being united. He believes Craig Guy is the right person to bring HCDO together, especially in Jersey City.

Vainieri, on the other hand, stands by his record, spotlighting his dedication to key electoral showdowns, including th?e campaign to send Tammy Murphy to the U.S. Senate and ensuring the re??election of U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez and Hudson County Surrogate Tilo Rivas.

He goes as far as expressing disappointment over Stack’s support for a candidate from a town outside of his representation, suggesting it might not sit well with voters.

The dispute between Stack and Sacco is deep-rooted, with mutual accusations of undermining each other’s efforts. This battle is not just about leadership positions but also about representation, leadership style, and the future direction of the Democratic Party?.

So, What Does It Mean for Hudson County?

This feud, especially considering the upcoming elections, is again an example of how important unity can be. The outcome could significantly impact the way people view the Democratic Party, which can further impact ?the outcomes of elections in Hudson County and statewide.

Stack’s allegations against North Bergen’s leadership, claiming they have targeted him personally and even threatened his safety, add intensity to the conflict. On the other hand, Sacco denies any wrongdoing and advocates for party unity.

Furthermore, Stack’s endorsement of Craig Guy for HCDO leadership has brough?t long-standing political disagreements to the f??orefront.

As everyone prepares for the primary elections, the focus is on ?this feud and what it means f??or local and wider political scenes.

The Incident

On July 7, 2022, North Bergen Police were alerted about an injured juvenile at a Dane Court residence. Officers found an unresponsive two-year-old girl on the floor of a bedroom. Despite being rushed to Hackensack University Medical Center in a critical state, the girl was pronounced dead on July 23, 2022​​�

Investigation and Indictment

The Hudson County Prosecutor, Esther Suarez, announced that an extensive investigation into the girl’s death revealed signs of abuse. The tragic situation was further compounded by the apartment’s unsanitary condition, which was also home to three other children​​â€?

Tracy Ruiz, 31, and Luis Larios, 35, identified as the girl’s parents and residents of Green Brook, have been indicted by a Hudson County grand jury. Ruiz faces charges of aggravated assault and two counts of endangeri??ng the welfare o??f a child. Larios is charged with endangering the welfare of a child​​​â€?

Arrests and Legal Proceedings

Ruiz and Larios were arrested following their indictment. Ruiz was apprehended at the Hudson County? Administration Building in Jersey City, while Larios was taken into custody at the Huds??on County Prosecutor’s Office in Secaucus​​​�

Community Reaction and Legal Outcomes

The community has been deeply affected by this tragedy, with many calling for justice and increased awareness about child welfare. Th??e legal pr??ocess is ongoing, and many are closely watching for the outcomes of the trials of Ruiz and Larios.

This case serves as a stark reminder of ??the responsibilities of caregiving and the severe consequences of neglect and abuse. As the legal system works to address this tragic in?cident, the community mourns the loss of a young life and calls for measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.