Dear Editor:
It is obvious after reading “Details Not Available” (October 20) that the Town of Secaucus needs to do a better job to make sure that all Secaucus residents – not just those who live in Harmon Cove – have access to the train station being built in our backyard. We do need bus transportation to the station for those who cannot drive there, but commuter parking should also be part of the plan. Commuter rail station towns in New Jersey, on Long Island, in Westchester and all over the country have commuter parking set aside for town residents at rail stations. Why not us? Yes, the plans I have read on the Secaucus Transfer Station project do not include commuter parking lots. But the plans include 4 hotels so there will be parking on site. Out of town hotel guest will be able to park and take the train, but not town residents? Secaucus in not a large town and a small surface lot will meet our needs.
Commuter parking for town residents would benefit not just commuters but those of us who enjoy the attractions of New York City at night and on the weekends. And an added bonus for Secaucus homeowners is the increase in property values that a 5-minute drive and a 6-minute train ride to Midtown would create.
As the plans for The Secaucus Transfer Station still appear fluid (does anyone know if a final master plan exist?) the Town of Secaucus needs to make sure Secaucus residents can park at the train station being built in our town.
Greg Cummings
Harmon Cove Towers