Rail link eyed for New York-area airport

NEWBURGH, N.Y., July 10 (UPI) -- New York may build a commuter rail stop at Stewart International Airport after the city's major airport operator takes it over, a state engineer said Tuesday.

The state Department of Transportation has begun a study into the feasibility of constructing a link to Stewart, 55 miles north of New York City, from an existing suburban train station, Department of Transportation Chief Engineer Robert Dennison said.

This would give passengers an express train trip between the airport and the city or Newark Liberty International Airport, he said.

Metro-North Commuter Railroad, which operates the rail line, has pushed for the link, which would involve buying property and building new tracks, Mid-Hudson News Network reported.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey plans to take over the 2,400-acre airport in Newburgh, N.Y., in October to reduce congestion at Newark, LaGuardia and Kennedy International airports.

The takeover will also "prepare us for tremendous anticipated growth in air travel for years to come," Port Authority Chairman Anthony Coscia said.

The Port Authority has budgeted $150 million for improvements, including additional parking and an international passenger terminal. Other plans include runway extensions, new taxiways, major cargo expansions and improved highway access.