JohnFromJersey wrote: ↑Thu Mar 11, 2021 1:10 am
Is there a chance that some of this track work could be related to any MOM usage? Doesn't make sense that they would facelift that bridge, throw an NJT sign on it, and re-wire the TRIT switch when there's little to no potential freight customers on the rather lengthy ROW. Not to mention the recent uptick in track work south of Lakehurst/Lakewood, supposedly for sand trains that aren't guaranteed and aren't coming anytime soon.
As CJPat noted the bridge was painted to cover pro-Trump graffiti. The bridge is state property and our 'D' gub'mint probably didn't like what was on their bridge.
The trackwork South of Lakehurst was for Clayton Sand who owns the track from Union Ave. South for 13 miles . The original MOM plans called for Lakehurst to be the southern terminus for passenger service. So no, not for MOM.
The TRIT switch was removed several years ago, but as part of the Union Ave. crossing re-build they are rewiring the crossing protection. (lights, bells, etc.) The switch may have been used at Woodhaven when they put in their second siding.
The NEC Portal Bridge construction project is supposed to begin this year (Fall) and will require a lot of concrete, hence a lot of sand. And Clayton's pits in Woodmansie have excellent sand for concrete. Following that Amtrak still wants two new tunnels under the Hudson and then rebuild the existing tunnels. Lots more concrete.