Today, the tri-state region lost one of its most steadfast champions of sustainable transportation, New Jersey Senator Frank R. Lautenberg.

Few people in the history of New Jersey have contributed more to the expansion and safety of the state’s rail network than Senator Lautenberg. He worked tirelessly to revitalize Amtrak, brought the Hudson Bergen Light Rail to fruition, secured $500 million in federal funding to create the NJ Transit Secaucus train station and championed major transportation bills to increase transportation funding for New Jersey. His most recent transportation accomplishment guaranteed the future possibility of the Gateway Tunnel as he, along with New York Senator Charles Schumer and US Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, successfully secured $185 million in federal aid for a “tunnel box” under the Hudson Yards project.

To assure that his legacy lives on, Governor Christie must appoint someone who embodies the same fervor and dedication for transportation issues. Senator Lautenberg’s constituents, and the residents of New Jersey, deserve another strong champion that will help the state respond to the changing transportation mobility needs in the state. Our condolences to the Lautenberg family.