It's time to let Amtrak start East River Tunnel fixes

After years of fits and starts, the massive effort to repair the aging East River Tunnel tubes — which carry thousands of Long Island commuters and hundreds of Long Island Rail Road trains every day to and from Penn Station — finally is expected to get underway. It’s going to be a long, painful process.

Two of the four tubes were damaged by Superstorm Sandy in 2012. They need extensive fixes, from concrete to tracks to electrical work. The project has been delayed more than a decade. It can’t be held up any longer. Both Amtrak and the LIRR rely on the tunnels daily; if the power fails, or other problems ensue, the impact would be disastrous.

Amtrak, the national passenger rail system that owns and controls the tunnels, plans to close one tube at a time, for about three years total. It’s likely cheaper, faster and better in the long run, but could cause disruptions for the LIRR which will depend on the three remaining tubes to keep its schedules intact. If something goes wrong in one tube, delays will cascade through the system. That’s worrisome, for sure. But after 13 years, some action needs to happen.

It’s no surprise that Gov. Kathy Hochul and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, along with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, are suddenly protesting the closure plan, suggesting Amtrak do the work on nights and weekends while keeping all tubes open for service. But the MTA has known about — and signed off on — Amtrak’s plan for years, despite having legitimate misgivings. As the closure is about to become reality, there’s a sense that banking the ability to say “I told you so” is in play.

There might be a better repair strategy. The editorial board previously raised concerns over potential disruptions and Amtrak’s track record. But starting over when financing, contractors, schedules and strategies are in place — so long after Sandy’s saltwater started corroding the tunnels — isn’t a real option.

Concerns about Amtrak’s record are valid. Amtrak has often lacked the urgency, innovation and workforce to operate on time and on budget. Communication with government partners and riders hasn’t been a strong suit. It’s unclear whether Amtrak can lead a project of this scope and importance. Amtrak officials told the editorial board they’re ready this time. They pledged to have backup plans, including well-positioned workers and locomotives, to address potential problems. They vowed to stay on schedule. And they promised that doing it this way leaves newly repaired tunnels stronger with longer-lasting fixes. We can only hope.

Amtrak’s new leaders must prioritize and deliver on those promises. Amtrak should release details on construction schedules and mitigation strategies, so riders know what to expect. Outreach is critical. Amtrak and the MTA must work together to minimize commuting woes.

This won’t be easy. But a tunnel that crumbles would be worse. It’s time to stop fighting and start the repairs.